SBY Supports Cultural Diversity: Denpasar, Bali

In his opening speech at the Bali Arts Festival in Denpasar, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono expressed full support of cultural diversity saying it is needed to sustain the nation's rich and colourful cultural heritage.

The major theme of the 28th Bali Arts Festival is Swabhawaning Idep (A Shining Ethical Self) which was inspired by the ancient literary work Kakawin Sutasoma and this piece of work promotes harmonious inter-religious and inter-cultural issues and in fact Indonesia's official motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) was derived from a line in the work.

Apparently Yudhoyono also reminded the audience that cultural diversity and cultural rights were an integral part of human rights and went on to express that it would provide the nation with a wide array of different, unique and interesting cultural treasures. Continuing he added that "We need to create a conducive atmosphere to strengthen local cultural values and wisdom as well as to provide a space for creativity for our artists"

The annual festival, which costs over Rp 4 billion will take place until July 15 and will involve over 160 events including performances, competitions, exhibitions and seminars. Yudhoyono officially opened the cultural fiesta by releasing a flower-tipped arrow from a bow. A colourful two hour long parade of various traditional and contemporary dances closed the opening ceremony.