Rhoma Irama Supports Registering Dangdut to UNESCO, More Optimistic about Going Global

Kapanlagi.com - Dangdut king Rhoma Irama, along with the Indonesian Malay Music Artists Association (PAMMI), officially registers dangdut music as intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia, and submits it to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Apparently, this is not the first time Rhoma Irama and PAMMI have endeavored to have dangdut recognized as intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia. In the past, when Agung Laksono served as the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture of Indonesia, efforts were already made.

"We registered dangdut to UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, and of course, it is driven by the government," said Rhoma Irama in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, on Monday night (28/8/2023).

"Why do I keep fighting? Because I want dangdut to be recognized by the world as a cultural heritage of the homeland. This music has been around for more than 50 years, now is the time," added Rhoma Irama.

1. Proposed as World Cultural Heritage

KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

In order for dangdut to be accepted as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO, Rhoma said that it is not an easy task. Of course, the role of the government is very helpful, especially from the DKI Jakarta Province, which proposed it.

"It is planned to be proposed as a world cultural heritage. But the process must start from the DKI Jakarta Province, proposing it to the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia. After that, the process will be handled by the Ministry of Education and Culture," said Linda R Riani, Head of the Cultural Department of DKI Jakarta Province.

2. Hoping Dangdut is Known Internationally

It is known that dangdut has long been ingrained in Indonesian society and has become one of its identities. Moreover, dangdut is not only known in Indonesia but also in foreign countries including Europe.

"England has started to like it. English singer Joss Stone came to my house and said 'I'm one of your fans'. That means there is already a lot of dangdut in England, and Joss Stone sang the song 'Judi' in front of me," said Rhoma.

3. Rhoma Irama Has Many Hopes

With the inclusion of dangdut music as an intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia, Ridho Rhoma's father hopes that dangdut can bring honor to Indonesia. And of course, its existence recognized by the world.

"Yes, the hope is for dangdut music to go international, as it can bring a good reputation to the nation. Hoping to elevate the dignity and status of Indonesia in the eyes of the world," concluded Rhoma Irama.

(kpl/aal/dyn)