Ministry Of Culture: Pillars Of National Characters And Economy

Wayang is one of the cultural heritages that has great potential. (Freepic.com)

In the new era of Prabowo Subianto's administration, a breath of fresh air emerged for the Indonesian world of culture. The Ministry of Culture finally established itself, apart from the Ministry of Education and Culture. This separation is not only a symbol, but also an affirmation that culture is a strategic asset. Indonesia, with the wealth of art, traditions and ancestral heritage, has not fully utilized culture as a power of "soft power" and motors driving the economy. Currently, in the midst of the swift flow of global culture, this step is very crucial.

We can learn from South Korea, which has succeeded in bringing K-Pop globally. As reported by Kompas, K-Pop contributed more than 10 billion US dollars to the South Korean economy in 2020. Hollywood in the United States is also an example of how culture can generate a large-valued creative economy. In 2019, the US entertainment industry earned 35 billion dollars, making it one of the main drivers of the country's economy.

Indonesia's potential is not inferior. We have wayang, batik, literature, theater, traditional dance, to culinary dance such as rendang and fried rice that have been recognized by the world. If managed properly, this culture can become a global commodity. With the establishment of the Ministry of Culture, the opportunity to market Indonesian culture to the world stage is getting wider.

However, the task of the Ministry of Culture is not only to preserve it. In a wider context, this ministry must also be able to bridge the creative economy, especially in the film and music sector. Currently, Indonesian cinema is showing a revival, with a projection of 60 million viewers in 2024, according to an Antara report. Indonesian traditional and modern music also holds great potential if it is promoted appropriately.

The Ministry of Culture plays a role as the vanguard in maintaining cultural heritage as well as developing it into a driving force for the creative economy. Countries such as South Korea and the United States have shown how culture can become a significant economic force. Indonesia must be able to take advantage of this momentum.

Many have called Fadli Zon a strong candidate to lead this ministry. As a figure who has a deep love for culture, Fadli has a long track record in introducing Indonesian arts and culture to the international world. His experience in various global forums, as well as the management of various cultural institutions such as the Fadli Zon Creative House and the Sastra Museum in Padang Panjang, shows his commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

With the support of President Prabowo Subianto and the right leadership, the Ministry of Culture has a great opportunity to become a catalyst for Indonesian cultural development. Fadli Zon, with his vision, is considered to be able to bring Indonesian culture to the global stage and make it a pillar of the nation's economy. This is not just a discourse, because it is reported that the government has prepared a large allocation of funds to support this initiative.