15 Indonesian Cultural Heritage Recognized By UNESCO And Global

Wayang is one of the recognized Indonesian cultural heritages of UNESCO (Pinterest/@elenoropals)

YOGYAKARTA - Indonesia is known as a country with extraordinary cultural wealth, ranging from languages, traditional clothing, to traditional arts. Each region in Indonesia has different cultural characteristics. This cultural wealth has even been recognized internationally by UNESCO as a world heritage that needs to be preserved.

The recognition from UNESCO is clear evidence that Indonesian culture has universal value that deserves to be maintained. The Indonesian government actively proposes cultural heritage to UNESCO. This step aims to keep Indonesia's cultural heritage alive and well known throughout the world.

UNESCO recognition is not only the pride of the nation, but also a responsibility to continue to support and preserve cultural heritage so that it does not disappear under the age. Here are 15 of UNESCO's recognized Indonesian cultural heritage.

Batik became one of the cultural heritages recognized by UNESCO in 2009 under the name 'Indonesian Batik'. This cloth is not only aesthetically valuable, but is also full of philosophical meanings in each of its motifs. Until now, batik has become a symbol of national identity and is used in various official events.

Kebaya is also included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list in 2024 under the name Kebaya: knowledge, skills, tradeions and practices. This elegant dress is a symbol of Indonesian women's splendor and has long historical value since the 15th century. This recognition further strengthens the position of kebaya as a cultural heritage of Southeast Asian women.

From the eastern tip of Indonesia, there was the Noken Papua which was recognized by UNESCO in 2012 under the name "Noken multifunctional knotted or female bag, handcraft of the people of Papua". This traditional bag is made of wood fiber, nenduam tree, or forest orchid. Uniquely, the noken is carried by wrapping it around its head and draped it around its back.

The herbal medicine was officially recognized by UNESCO in 2023 under the name Jamu Wellness Culture. This traditional concoction is proof of Indonesia's local wisdom in maintaining health naturally. Until now, herbal medicine remains an important part of the lifestyle of the Indonesian people.

Keris, a traditional weapon typical of the archipelago, has been recognized by UNESCO since 2008 under the name Indonesian Kris. Apart from being used as a weapon, keris also has spiritual value and a symbol of social status. Each Keris is made with a deep philosophy and a sacred manufacturing process.

Wayang, the art of traditional Indonesian performances, was also included in the UNESCO list in 2008 under the name 'The Wayang Puppet Theater'. The puppet show is not only entertaining, but also conveys moral messages, education, and history through its legendary figures.

Angklung from West Java was recognized by UNESCO in 2010 under the name 'Indonesian Angklung'. This bamboo musical instrument symbolizes the value of cooperation because it is played in harmony in groups. Angklung has even symbols of Indonesian cultural diplomacy in various countries.

UNESCO officially recognized the gamelan in 2021 under the name Gamelan. Gamelan has a deep philosophy of balance of life and social harmony. Its soft voice often accompanies traditional ceremonies, dances, and religious rituals.

Kolintang from Minahasa, North Sulawesi, received UNESCO recognition in 2024 under the name Cultural practices and expressions linked to Balafon and Kolintang in Mali, Burkina Faso, Crypte d'Ivoire and Indonesia. This musical instrument made of a series of wooden blades is played by beating. Kolintang is proof that traditional Indonesian music can compete in the world arena.

The Saman dance from Aceh has become a cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO since 2011 under the name 'Saman Dance'. This dance is known for its dynamic movements and is carried out in a compact manner by a group of dancers without musical instruments. Saman dance is often considered a symbol of unity and togetherness.

From the Island of the Gods, the Three Genres of Traditional Bali Dances were also included in the UNESCO list in 2015 under the name Three genres of traditional dance in Bali. The three genres include sacred, semi-sakral, and entertainment dances that reflect the spiritual depth of Balinese people. These dances are still actively practiced in various temples and traditional ceremonies.

UNESCO recognized Pinions from South Sulawesi in 2017 under the name 'Pinition, art of boatbuilding in South Sulawesi'. This traditional ship is made with a special technique passed down from generation to generation by Bugis and Mandar craftsmen. Pinition is a symbol of the expertise and courage of Indonesian sailors.

Pencak Silat received UNESCO's recognition in 2019 under the name Traditions of Pencak Silat. This martial art not only teaches fighting techniques, but also moral and spiritual values. Pencak Silat has now been practiced in various countries.

Pantun, a form of traditional Malay poetry, was recognized by UNESCO in 2020 under the name 'Pantun'. In addition to serving as entertainment, pantun is a medium of moral education and wisdom in society. With the pattern of ab-a-b, the rhyme shows the high enthusiasm of the Indonesian nation.

Reog Ponorogo officially became UNESCO's cultural heritage in 2024 under the name 'Reog Ponorogo Performing Art'. This art is known as a magnificent performance and a Singo Barong character that captivates the world's attention. Reog not only displays the beauty of art, but also the cultural and spiritual power of the people of East Java.

The Indonesian cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO above is a shared pride and responsibility to maintain its sustainability. Every element of culture reflects the wealth of value, beauty, and identity of the Indonesian nation. By safeguarding and preserving it, Indonesia also contributes to the priceless cultural heritage of the world.