West Java PKK Chair: Local Culture is Nation's Strongest Identity, Earns Global Respect

Samantha Dewi Erwan Setiawan, Chair of the West Java Provincial PKK Mobilization Team, has called on the younger generation to shed the stigma that traditional arts are outdated. She asserted that local culture represents the nation's most powerful identity, earning Indonesia respect on the global stage. Her statement came during the opening of the 1st West Java International Fun Folk Festival 2026 in Subang Regency, an event that attracted 75 delegates from four countries.

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Never feel that our culture is something ancient. Culture is precisely the identity that makes us known and valued by the world.

"Never feel that our culture is something ancient. Culture is precisely the identity that makes us known and valued by the world," said Samantha, who also serves as Advisor to PPLIPI West Java. She emphasized that loving local art is more than mere nostalgia; it is a tactical diplomatic instrument for preserving national identity and fostering dignified dialogue with other civilizations internationally.

The festival, featuring diverse international artistic expressions, aimed to create a universal language that transcends linguistic barriers, thereby strengthening global brotherhood. "Through a dance, we can convey respect; through a song, we can share happiness; and through an art performance, we can build friendships without many words," Samantha explained, highlighting art's power as a communication medium.

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Through a dance, we can convey respect; through a song, we can share happiness; and through an art performance, we can build friendships without many words.

Samantha expressed pride in West Java hosting this significant cultural gathering and hoped that international representatives would leave with a deep impression of the Parahyangan culture's warmth. "May every guest who comes not only enjoy this performance but also leave with a message of the hospitality of the West Java people, their cultural richness, and the spirit of togetherness that is our identity," she said. She lauded the organizers, Colour of Indonesia, and all supporters, hoping the West Java International Fun Folk Festival becomes a regular event to broaden friendship bridges between West Java and the world.

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May every guest who comes not only enjoy this performance but also leave with a message of the hospitality of the West Java people, their cultural richness, and the spirit of togetherness that is our identity.