Jakarta — Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, emphasized that the Islamic Arts and Culture Association (HSBI) must be a driving force for the advancement of Islamic culture in Indonesia. He delivered this message during the inauguration of the HSBI board for the 2024–2029 period at the HB Jassin Literary Documentation Center in Jakarta on Saturday, August 9.
Fadli recalled HSBI's long history, dating back to its founding on September 24, 1956, by H. Abdullah Aidid. The organization has staged the colossal drama "Titik Terang" (Bright Point) (1961), which was watched by 30,000 people, and the "Islamic Poets Party" (1963), which involved various Islamic youth organizations.
"HSBI has been preaching for 69 years through art, from dance and music to literature and painting, and even technology. This is proof of building a dignified civilization while upholding Islamic values," he said. According to Fadli, Islamic art is not merely entertainment, but a means of preaching, strengthening morals, and strengthening brotherhood.
He emphasized that Islamic culture in Indonesia has grown peacefully through trade, art, and literature, strongly acculturated with local culture. He said that HSBI must be relevant to the times, creative, and inclusive. "Art is a universal language to unite the people and the nation," he emphasized.
The inauguration featured a musical adaptation of the poem "Sajak dari Tanah Terluka" (Wounded Poem from the Land of the Wounded) by the HSBI Literary Council, "Hujan Bulan Juni" by Neno Warisman, and a reading from Taufiq Ismail's work. Several prominent figures were in attendance, including Alfiansyah "Komeng," Adi Bing Slamet, Asma Nadia, and Jose Rizal Manua.
Meanwhile, representatives from the Ministry of Culture included M. Asrian Mirza, the Minister of Culture's Special Staff for Media and Public Communication, who is also the General Treasurer of the HSBI Central Board; Anissa Rengganis, the Minister's Special Staff for Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations, who is also the Head of the HSBI Secretariat; and Feri Arlius, the Director of Facilities and Infrastructure.
Fadli continued, the government supports the development, training, and promotion of Islamic arts and culture. "Synergy between the government, society, and artists is key to ensuring Islamic culture continues to thrive and provide benefits," he concluded.
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