The 16th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO, held in Paris, France, on 15th December, 2021, recognized gamelan as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
“The gamelan inscription, nominated by Indonesia since 2019, has become Indonesia’s 12th cultural heritage acknowledged by UNESCO,” Indonesia’s Ambassador for France, Andorra, Monako, Mohamad Oemar, noted in his statement on Wednesday.
Gamelan is a traditional form of music often encountered in various regions in Indonesia, such as Bali, Madura and Lombok. The term Java gamelan generally refers to gamelan in Central Java.
The musical instrument is suspected to have been around since 404 BC, which can be seen from the relief in Borobudur and Prambanan temple.
Gamelan is not only played for art performances, but it is also played for various traditional activities and religious ceremonies.
UNESCO recognized the philosophical value of gamelan as a medium for cultural expression and building connections between humankind and the universe.
UNESCO also acknowledged that gamelan, which is played in an orchestra, teaches the values of mutual respect and compassion.
Education, Culture, Research and Technology Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim stressed he is proud as gamelan has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
“The art of gamelan continues to be studied, developed and passed on from generation and generation since its introiduction,” he noted.
“For Indonesians, gamelan is a part of national identity and pride. Gamelan has even embellished Indonesia’s music culture scene. In addition, gamelan music also inspires and has significant contributions to world music,” he added.
Education, Culture, Research, and Technology’s Culture Director-General Hilmar Farid also happily welcomed the news.
UNESCO’s acknowledgement is a confirmation of the world’s acknowledgement, which will improve Indonesia’s image in the international stage.
“This means our job is to preserve the cultural inheritance of gamelan. This should also be a challenge for us all to show the world Indonesia’s efforts to advance culture,” he stated.
Source: Antara News