Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The National Museum of Indonesia unveiled the Keris national treasure exhibition on Monday, November 25, 2024. Held until December 31, the exhibition showcasing more than 200 traditional daggers (keris) from across the Indonesian archipelago.
The exhibitions themed “Charm of the Nusantara Keris” coincides with the commemoration of 19th anniversary of the keris’ designation as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
The Exhibitions features keris collections from four main cultural clusters: Javanese and Madurese Keris Cluster (Spanning East Java, Solo, Yogyakarta, Sunda, Cirebon, and Banten), Malay Keris Cluster (Encompassing all of Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula), Bugis-Makassar Keris Cluster (Covering Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Sumba, and Sumbawa), ans Balinese and Lombok Keris Cluster.
The artifacts are sourced from the National Museum’s extensive collection and contributions from members of the Indonesian Keris Secretariat (SNKI), including pieces owned by notable figures such as Minister of Culture Fadli Zon and President Prabowo Subianto.
Education and Preservation
Designed as an interactive experience, the exhibition serves not only as a cultural attraction but also as an educational platform. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s national identity through the keris, a powerful cultural and spiritual symbol.
During the opening ceremony, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts behind the event.
“I deeply appreciate the Charm of the Nusantara Keris Exhibition, organized by the Indonesian Keris Secretariat in partnership with the Ministry of Culture,” said Fadli.
He emphasized the exhibition’s role in raising public awareness about the keris’ importance as a cultural heritage and introducing it to younger generations through education, literacy programs, and public displays.
Fadli further highlighted the keris as a cornerstone of Indonesia’s cultural legacy, stating, “Cultural heritage like the keris is not merely a relic of the past but an integral part of our vision for a ‘culture for the future,’ where heritage inspires and innovates solutions for modern challenges.”
A Journey Through History
In addition to the keris display, the exhibition includes detailed information on their historical significance, functionality, and crafting techniques.
Archaeological artifacts, such as the Kwak I Inscription (9th century) and the Karang Tengah Inscription (824 AD), highlight the spiritual and societal role of keris in ancient times. Visitors can also view temple reliefs from Panataran and Sukuh, depicting keris-making and usage.
To complement the exhibition, Minister Fadli Zon also launched a three-volume book series titled “Charm of the Nusantara Keris,” exploring the historical, philosophical, and artistic dimensions of the keris.
The series delves into the weapon’s unique designs, metallurgy, and the craftsmanship of traditional keris-makers, known as empu. The book series is expected to serve as a vital reference for understanding the keris’ rich cultural values while enriching Indonesia’s documentation of its heritage.
Therfore, from the exhibitions to the release of the book series has shown the Minister of Culture effort to celebrate and preserve national treasure. “This exhibition is a tangible commitment to reintroducing the keris as a national treasure that we must preserve, celebrate, and interpret collectively,” Fadli concluded.
The “Charm of the Nusantara Keris” exhibition is open to the public at the National Museum of Indonesia until the end of December, offering an immersive experience in the artistry and history of one of Indonesia’s most revered cultural artifacts.
(Raidi/Agung)
