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KOLINTANG RECOGNIZED BY UNESCO AS INTAGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE

KOLINTANG, a traditional musical instrument from Minahasa, North Sulawesi, has been officially recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage or Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This was announced at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage held in Paraguay on Thursday (12/05), 2024.

The Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in this achievement. “The Kolintang is not only a musical instrument, but also a symbol of harmony, unity and creativity of the Indonesian people. This recognition is a testament to our shared commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural wealth,” said Fadli Zon in his virtual speech.

This recognition also reflects the cross-cultural values that Kolintang shares with the balafon, a traditional musical instrument originating from Mali, Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa. This is proof that traditional music can bridge geographical and cultural divides.

“Although they come from different traditions, Kolintang and Balafon show that music is a universal language that can unite us in rhythm and creativity in the midst of differences,” he added.

Fadli Zon also expressed his respect and pride for the entire kolintang community in Indonesia, from musicians to craftsmen to cultural practitioners, who have worked hard to ensure the sustainability of this musical instrument.

“We are grateful for your dedication to keeping the kolintang alive and inspiring future generations,” he said.

This recognition by UNESCO also carries with it a great responsibility to continue to preserve and promote the Kolintang on the national and international stage. Fadli Zon emphasized that this cultural heritage must be a bridge for intercultural dialogue and a link between generations.

“We hope that this recognition can raise global awareness of the importance of intangible cultural heritage and strengthen cross-country cooperation in efforts to preserve Kolintang and Balafon,” he said.

The recognition of Kolintang covers five important areas of intangible cultural heritage: oral tradition, performing arts, social and ritual practices, ecological knowledge, and traditional crafts.

In addition, Kolintang is expected to be a catalyst for change that can transcend geographical, cultural and linguistic boundaries and support the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“The Ministry of Culture is ready to support and is committed to working with all levels of society in efforts to promote, develop and nurture culture, especially in the context of intangible cultural heritage, and to foster an inclusive cultural ecosystem,” Fadli Zon concluded. [sources/photo special]