WNAM REPORT: Minister of Culture Fadli Zon stated that this year, the Indonesian government will register tempeh (fermented soybean) for UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.
Speaking at a discussion event on Indonesian culinary culture held in Depok, West Java, on Saturday (March 15), he said culinary is a cultural expression and part of local traditions passed down through generations.
Therefore, food culture is closely tied to ancestral traditions, the minister said as quoted from a ministry’s press release here on Sunday.
“Whether it is (planting of and harvest for) rice, corn, and others, all have the traditions, ceremonies, rituals, and prayers that are passed down through the generations,” he said.
He also mentioned that traditional cuisine and gastronomy are part of the nation’s cultural heritage.
“For example, rendang (meat dish), which has 24 different varieties in various regions,” he said, adding that the subak irrigation system in Bali is also part of the country’s food cultural heritage.
This irrigation system has been recognized as one of the world cultural heritage, he stated.
In the discussion on food culture, Minister Zon emphasized the importance of food diversification in efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency target in the next four to five years.
He mentioned sorghum as an alternative food crop that could be developed to diversify food supply.
“Sorghum needs to be developed as it can replace rice and wheat, supporting our food independence,” he said.
Meanwhile, Depok Mayor Supian Suri pointed out the city government’s plan to develop urban farming.
According to him, the Depok City Government is preparing seven hectares of land to create a conservation forest area and promote urban farming.
