World Puppet Day 2026 in Yogya, UNIMA asks for support, Minister of Education Fadli Zon asks for focus on rare puppets

Fadli Zon emphasized that preserving wayang is not a matter of community alone. (IST)

JAKARTA - The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia Fadli Zon emphasized that the preservation of puppetry is not the business of the community alone, but a shared responsibility. He conveyed this when receiving an audience with the ranks of the Union Internationale de la Marionnette d'Indonesie (UNIMA) at the Ministry of Culture's office, Jakarta, Friday, February 20. The meeting discussed plans for the 2026 World Puppetry Day. The event is scheduled to take place from April 24-26, 2026 in Yogyakarta.

UNIMA President, Dimas Samodra Rum, said that the series of events would present various expressions of puppet art. Starting from classical puppet performances. Including rare puppets that are threatened with extinction. To contemporary and experimental works. In addition to performances, the agenda also includes cultural seminars, artist meeting rooms, and exhibitions of cultural works. UNIMA also prepares space for traditional-based UMKM actors.

Responding to the plan, the Minister of Culture (Menbud) Fadli emphasized the richness of the variety of puppetry that needs to be maintained across generations. "The extraordinary variety of puppets from the past, classic puppets including Wayang Wahyu, Wayang Sukha, Wayang Krucil, and many other varieties," said Fadli.

UNIMA explained that this activity is part of the global network's commitment. UNIMA is involved in initiating the World Puppet Day every year. The adjustment of the implementation time in Indonesia is carried out to expand public participation.

Wayang has been recognized as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2003. This recognition confirms the value of wayang as a system of knowledge. Also as an art expression. At the same time a reflection of the wisdom of culture that lives in society.

Present to accompany the Minister of Culture, the Expert Staff of the Minister of Culture for Inter-Institutional Relations Ismunandar and the Director of Cultural Heritage I Made Dharma Sutedja. Fadli expressed the government's support for the planned activities. He emphasized that strengthening the puppetry ecosystem must be sustainable. Starting from regeneration. Up to support for communities and studios in various regions. The goal is for wayang to remain relevant without losing its basic value.