The establishment of the Cultural and Customary Council of NTB, led by Iqbal and Dinda, is an essential step in safeguarding these traditions. In an ever-changing world, preserving local traditions and cultural heritage is more important than ever. For the province of NTB (West Nusa Tenggara), the rich history and diverse cultures of its people form the foundation of its identity. This article explores the significance of the council and the role that Iqbal and Dinda will play in preserving NTB’s cultural heritage.
The Need for a Cultural and Customary Council in NTB
NTB is home to various ethnic groups, each with its own unique cultural practices, languages, and traditions. Among the most prominent are the Sasak, Samawa, and Mbojo communities, who have lived in the region for centuries, passing down their customs from generation to generation. However, these traditions face increasing challenges due to globalization, urbanization, and modern lifestyles. As a result, there is a pressing need to preserve NTB’s cultural heritage.
Iqbal and Dinda recognize that these local customs and traditions are not just important for identity but also for the well-being of the province. By establishing the Cultural and Customary Council, they aim to provide a platform for the promotion, protection, and development of NTB’s cultural heritage, ensuring it is not lost to time or modern pressures.
The Role of the Cultural and Customary Council
1. Preserving Local Culture and Traditions
The primary role of the Cultural and Customary Council is to preserve the cultural identity of NTB. This includes safeguarding traditional practices such as ceremonies, dances, art, and local languages. By setting up the council, Iqbal and Dinda aim to ensure that NTB’s customs are passed on to younger generations and that they are celebrated in a modern context. This means organizing cultural festivals, traditional art exhibitions, and educational programs that engage both the local community and visitors.
2. Fostering Community Involvement
One of the key goals of the council is to foster greater community involvement in cultural preservation. Iqbal and Dinda believe that for NTB’s traditions to thrive, the people of the region must be actively involved in protecting and promoting them. The council will serve as a platform for local leaders, community members, and cultural practitioners to collaborate and share ideas. This collective effort will help strengthen bonds within the community and ensure that all cultural practices are respected and valued.
3. Supporting Sustainable Tourism
NTB is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning landscapes, beaches, and cultural heritage. By promoting its traditional arts and customs through the Cultural and Customary Council, Iqbal and Dinda hope to enhance sustainable tourism. The council will help ensure that tourism respects and supports local cultures, rather than eroding them. This can create new economic opportunities for local communities, as tourists who appreciate NTB’s cultural uniqueness will support local businesses, handicrafts, and cultural events.
4. Integrating Cultural Education in Schools
Another important role of the Cultural and Customary Council will be integrating cultural education into the school curriculum. Through programs that teach local history, language, and customs, Iqbal and Dinda aim to instill a sense of pride and connection to NTB’s cultural heritage in the younger generation. By doing so, they hope to create future generations who will be passionate about preserving their traditions and passing them on to others.
The Benefits of the Cultural and Customary Council for NTB
1. Strengthening Local Identity
NTB’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and preserving these cultures helps strengthen the identity of the people who live there. Through the Cultural and Customary Council, Iqbal and Dinda will encourage people to embrace their roots and celebrate their heritage. This shared cultural pride will create a stronger, more united community, where people from different ethnic groups come together to appreciate their collective history.
2. Economic Growth Through Cultural Tourism
The promotion of NTB’s cultural heritage has significant potential to boost the local economy. Cultural tourism, driven by the council’s efforts, will bring in more visitors who are interested in experiencing traditional music, dance, food, and art. Local businesses, artisans, and cultural performers will benefit from this increased interest, and new job opportunities will be created in the tourism sector. This economic boost will help communities thrive while maintaining their cultural authenticity.
3. Preserving Intangible Cultural Heritage
NTB is home to many intangible cultural elements, such as traditional dances, rituals, and oral traditions. These forms of heritage are especially vulnerable to being forgotten in the face of modern influences. The Cultural and Customary Council will focus on preserving these intangible aspects of NTB’s culture, ensuring that they are documented, practiced, and shared with future generations. This will also contribute to NTB’s cultural diversity being recognized on a national and international level.
4. Promoting Social Harmony
In a province as diverse as NTB, social cohesion is essential. The council will help promote social harmony by ensuring that all cultures and traditions are respected and celebrated. Iqbal and Dinda understand that preserving local customs is not just about protecting the past—it is about building a future where everyone can coexist peacefully and take pride in the cultural wealth of the province.
The establishment of the Cultural and Customary Council of NTB is a significant step towards preserving the province’s rich cultural heritage. Iqbal and Dinda’s commitment to safeguarding NTB’s traditions will benefit the community by strengthening local identity, boosting the economy through cultural tourism, and fostering social unity. Through the council’s work, the people of NTB will not only preserve their cultural roots but also ensure that their unique customs continue to thrive in the modern world. The council will undoubtedly play a crucial role in maintaining NTB’s place as a cultural and historical treasure in Indonesia.
