VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

The Directorate General of Culture at the Education, Culture, Research and Technology Ministry promoted Balinese local wisdom to ASEAN members through the Natural Dyes of ASEAN Workshop held on November 7-11, 2022, in Bali.

Secretary of the directorate general, Fitra Arda, noted in a statement on Tuesday that one of the themes raised during the workshop was the promotion of local wisdom as a cultural way of life for sustainable living.

He said that the event became an example on how to empower cultural ecosystems, cultural resilience, and cultural contributions on the international stage with the concept of cultural sustainability.

"We gather in Bali to introduce local wisdom to the world, especially to the ASEAN members, to increase awareness that it is important for us to preserve local materials and wisdom (as well as) to foster creativity and protect the environment, so that it remains sustainable,” he remarked.

He expressed optimism that the cultural forum would generate a resolution that can strengthen the implementation of sustainable traditional practices, such as the use of natural dye.

"By exploring the cultural practices of using natural dyes, it can encourage the cultivation of various plants that are the sources of dye, thereby improving the agricultural value chain, the carrying capacity of nature, as well as (the growth of) crafts and the tourism industry," the official remarked.

The forum is also expected to serve as an educational platform for the millennial generation to explore, continue, and promote local wisdom that pays attention to environmental aspects, he remarked.

Hence, implementation of the activity is necessary to encourage the preservation, development, and promotion of cultural heritages in all ASEAN member countries, he remarked.

"We can enhance mutual understanding and collaboration between ASEAN member countries through idea exchanges and consultations, leading to a (joint) commitment for environmental conservation and cooperative programs, particularly in traditional and contemporary textile (industry)," Arda stated.

Furthermore, he noted that the ASEAN delegates would visit the local craftsperson to learn ways to use natural dyes in various textile products, as one of the agendas of the workshop. (Antaranews)