Connecting Indonesia's Culture Diversity with World Modernization
Connecting Indonesia's Culture Diversity with World Modernization
By Viyuela Axelly and Jenna Azzahra Karindra
Okay. So does anyone have wondered why Indonesia's culture seems hidden and unknown by our own people? Or, why do adolescents nowadays seem to be interested in other countries’ culture rather than our own? Even though Indonesia’s culture is no less interesting than other cultures? What do we have to do to promote our own culture? There are so many questions, but no answers. So, why? Why does this happen?
To answer those questions, we need to look at a broader perspective. So, we need to start with the definition of culture. The word culture is derived from the word “cultura” in Latin. While the actual definition of this word is ways of life of a group of people in a certain area. Culture is formed by the thought and intelligence of humans when they are developing the society.
Now we know the definition of a culture. Before we move on to how to preserve the culture, first off we need to know the reason, the purpose of culture exactly. There are many purposes of culture. But, first is to form a sense of identity and a reminder of who we are. Second, is to establish a harmonious society. Third, is a media to unite and celebrate things that really matter. So, the last one is proof of the long history of human social life.
The next on the list is types of culture and its example, which is material culture and non-material culture. Material culture is objects-based culture, like ornaments, architecture, weapons, and more. Aside from material culture, there’s also non-material culture, which is idea or belief-based culture, like languages, gestures, folkways, and more. Fun fact, according to Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture in 2024, Indonesia has more than 2.213 non-material cultures from a total of 8.065 cultures! This includes over 700 languages (based on various trusted sources), arts like “Wayang Kulit” from Java and Bali or instruments like “Angklung” from West Java, traditional cloth techniques such as Batik, and so much more!
Now, knowing all of the glory and uniqueness of Indonesia’s cultures, we’re back in the early questions, to the problem. Why do our own people seem uninterested in Indonesia’s culture and prefer others? Why is Indonesia's culture more unknown?
Unfortunately, the Government’s efforts are not enough and not distributed thoroughly and fairly. Yes, they register many of Indonesia's traditional culture, but they lack a more modern approach and promotion, which is through the trends of social media, internet, and television. Besides the lack of promotions, the lack of public traditional shows held also impacts the motivation and interest of the young generation to learn more about traditional cultures. Because, the less promotion there is, the lesser knowledge about Indonesia’s culture. So, it is easier for other countries’ cultures to affect and embed youngsters’ minds, and it is further helped by factors like globalization and modernization. This is dangerous for Indonesia’s culture as it can wipe our culture off because of a lack of descendants/people to pass the culture or knowledge off.
It is a shame because Indonesia’s unique cultures can open countless positive opportunities that can help the country’s economy, as seen in Bali. Bali’s Government has established some regulations regarding its traditional culture, for example the usage of Bali traditional clothing for government uniform. Then, they also do promotions and support for traditional shows, like the Kecak Dance show in the Garuda Wisnu Kencana area, and much more.
Besides in Bali, the Asian Games 2018 opening also shows that Indonesia’s Government actually has the power to further promote Indonesia’s culture. Of course, not as massive as it, but they still have the ability to support traditional cultures well. National or international.
That’s why, everyone and the Government of Indonesia should be able to push and promote the traditional culture of Indonesia, including us. From small things to bigger things, we should do everything in our power to not let it be claimed by other countries. Especially the Government, they should add new regulations and work programs regarding the preservation, protection, and promotion of Indonesia’s culture. In hope that our culture is treasured and can be enjoyed till the next generations that open countless possibilities.
Because in the end, is our culture not important enough for us to treasure it? Is OUR thousand years of history just something that doesn’t need our full attention? Well, it’s up to you, because for me, action speaks louder than words.
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