Indonesia has urged Pacific nations to unite through cultural and creative collaboration as a pathway to sustainable development. Dr. Fadli Zon, Indonesia’s Minister for Culture, articulated this vision during the opening of the Indonesia–Pacific Cultural Synergy 2025 event held in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. He emphasized the historic role of the ocean as a connector of societies rather than a divider, highlighting the long-standing cultural exchanges that predate modern borders.
In his remarks, Dr. Zon drew attention to the deep-rooted traditions of storytelling, knowledge sharing, and community trust that have emerged from the region’s maritime heritage. This sentiment resonated among attendees, emphasizing the relevance of these traditions in guiding Pacific communities today. The event is part of Indonesia’s strategic efforts to deepen engagement with Pacific nations, positioning cultural initiatives as key drivers for inclusive growth and regional cooperation.
Reflecting on his travels across the Pacific, Dr. Zon expressed admiration for the diverse cultural expressions found throughout the region, including weaving, navigation, and storytelling traditions. He described the unique cultural identity of each island, stating, “Each island carries its own rhythm, but together they form the melody of our shared identity.”
Highlighting Indonesia’s vast diversity, which encompasses a population of 280 million across 17,000 islands and approximately 1,340 ethnic groups speaking 780 languages, Dr. Zon illustrated how this richness bolsters the global cultural landscape. He noted the economic potential of cultural industries, which is projected to contribute $9.8 billion to Indonesia’s GDP by 2027.
Despite this potential, he raised concerns about the threats posed by climate change to island heritage, citing that 73% of UNESCO-listed sites are at risk from sea-level rise and extreme weather events. “We must recognize this not as merely an environmental crisis but as a cultural emergency,” he urged, calling for concerted efforts to protect cultural heritage while also supporting artists and expanding creative market access.
To foster this collective response, Dr. Zon introduced IPACS 2025 as a platform aimed at organizing residencies, exhibitions, and policy dialogues to strengthen cultural networks between Indonesia and the Pacific. He concluded his address with an inspirational message, saying, “Our shared ocean connects more than our shores; it connects our futures.”
This optimistic call for collaboration aligns with trends across other Pacific nations, reflecting a burgeoning commitment to cultural diplomacy. Various initiatives have emerged, reinforcing ties and encouraging collaboration to address developmental challenges, all mirroring a shared desire for a resilient and united Pacific community.