Cirebon, Indonesia Sentinel — The West Java Provincial Government, through its Department of Culture, has officially designated five Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) items from Cirebon Regency as part of efforts to preserve local cultural wealth.
The five newly recognized ICH items include Adus Sumur Pitu, Memayu Buyut Trusmi, Muludan Tuk, Pengantin Tebu Cirebon, and Syawalan Gunungjati.
According to Sumarno, Head of Culture at Cirebon Regency Department of Tourism and Culture (Disbudpar), the proposal for these cultural practices began in 2024 and has now received formal recognition from the West Java Provincial Government.
“Last year, we submitted five cultural elements for recognition, and they have now been designated as ICH by West Java Province. Moving forward, we will aim for national recognition,” Sumarno said on Tuesday, January 21, as reported by Detik.
Expanding Cirebon’s Recognized Cultural Heritage
With these additions, Cirebon now boasts 13 cultural practices recognized at the national level as Intangible Cultural Heritage. These include well-known traditions such as
- Tari Topeng
- Sintren
- Lukis Kaca
- Gembyung
- Tarling
- Getak Winangun
- Angklung Bungko
- Goong Renteng
- Brai
- Krupuk Mlarat
- Sega Jamblang
- Empal Gentong
- Nadran
“With these five newly recognized items, Cirebon will have 18 cultural elements that we aim to elevate to national recognition,” Sumarno added.
Historical Landmark
In addition to intangible cultural heritage, Cirebon is home to numerous historical landmarks, including Karangsuwung Sugar Factory, Masjid Gamel, and the Lemahabang District Office. Masjid Gamel, one of the oldest mosques in the region, holds significant historical and cultural value.
“Cirebon has also identified 591 Potential Cultural Heritage Objects (ODCB). We urge the public to consult with the Department of Culture before undertaking construction projects to prevent damage to existing heritage sites,” Sumarno said.
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Sumarno emphasized that for an object or structure to qualify as cultural heritage, it must be at least 50 years old. “Cirebon has an abundance of historical assets that need to be protected. We will collaborate with expert teams to ensure optimal preservation efforts,” he concluded.
With its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, Cirebon continues to play a pivotal role in preserving Indonesia’s traditions for future generations. As efforts to secure national recognition for its cultural treasures progress, the region remains an example of the importance of safeguarding and celebrating local identity in an ever-changing world.
(Raidi/Agung)
