RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture held the Indonesian Cultural Outlook 2026 in Jakarta, Monday, 19 January 2026. The forum outlined Indonesia’s direction in cultural diplomacy and international cultural promotion.

The event served as a strategic platform to engage diplomatic missions and international partners. It aimed to foster Indonesia’s cultural presence on the global stage throughout 2026.

Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, stated that cultural diplomacy will be the main focus of Indonesia’s national cultural action plan. He said this approach is designed to enhance international recognition of Indonesia’s cultural heritage.

He explained that the strategy emphasizes multilateral diplomacy and stronger collaboration with international cultural institutions. These efforts are expected to reinforce Indonesia’s position in global cultural cooperation.

“Regarding cultural diplomacy and promotional cooperation, the action plan and programs for 2026 will primarily focus on cultural diplomacy and cooperation with international cultural institutions,” Fadli Zon said. “In 2026, we will strengthen our role at UNESCO through nominations to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.”

He added that Indonesia will advance stronger nomination pathways to ensure sustained global recognition. These efforts will be supported by more structured and credible nomination processes.

According to the minister, the focus for 2026 includes Tempe or Tempeh as authentic cultural heritage originating from Indonesia. Indonesia will also jointly advance the Mak Yong nomination with Malaysia while preparing future nominations, including Dangdut.

Through the Indonesian Cultural Outlook 2026, the Ministry of Culture also announced policy plans across other cultural sectors. The forum reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to expanding cross-border and cross-institutional cultural collaboration in 2026.