Reog Ponorogo Officially Becomes A World Heritage, This Is What Minister Fadli Zon Said

The Moment The Minister Of Culture Fadli Zon Rides Reog Ponorogo (Ist)

JAKARTA The art of the reog Ponorogo performance is officially recognized as the world's Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTb) by UNESCO. This decision was taken in the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay, December 3, 2024.

With this intention, Reog Ponorogo became the 14th Indonesian WBTb registered at UNESCO, affirming this traditional art position as a national pride.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, in his virtual speech at the hearing, emphasized that this recognition is not only an achievement, but also a big responsibility.

"Reog Ponorogo is not just an art show, but also a reflection of the identity, courage, and solidarity of the Ponorogo community. This recognition is a call for all of us to preserve this legacy amidst the challenges of modernization," said Fadli in a written statement received Tuesday, December 4.

Reog Ponorogo is from Ponorogo Regency, East Java, and has been an important part of the lives of local people for centuries. This art combines dance, music, and mythology full of symbolic meanings, such as courage and mutual cooperation.

Its creative process involves collaboration between artists, craftsmen, and local communities, making it a real example of cultural power in uniting society.

Fadli Zon highlighted that this traditional art ecosystem must be revived so as not to become extinct. "Reog Ponorogo is a collective responsibility. The government and the local community will continue to ensure its sustainability, from documentation to integration in education," he said.

This international recognition is not the end, but the beginning of a new commitment. The government, through the Ministry of Culture, has initiated various programs to support the preservation of Reog Ponorogo, including documentation and promotion of traditional art, empowerment of the art community as the main guardian of the culture and integration of Reog in formal and informal education.

In addition, Fadli Zon invites the younger generation to know and love this legacy better. "The younger generation is the guardian of the future of Reog Ponorogo. Let's make this art an inspiration to build a nation that respects its cultural roots," said Fadli.

Fadli closed his speech with a strong call to all Indonesian people. "Reog Ponorogo is the pride of all of us. This moment is an opportunity to strengthen commitment in maintaining cultural heritage to stay alive and relevant in the midst of world civilization."