According to Indonesian Ministry of Education data from 2022, 11,622 cultural heritage items were recorded, 1,728 of them designated. In 2023, the number of designated intangible cultural heritage items increased by 213 to 1,941.
Cultural celebrations are a way to understand the heritage derived from the history and values upheld by local communities. In the technological era, young people play a crucial role in promoting and revitalizing these cultural festivals. The UGM Innovation and Creativity Hub (GIK UGM) is expected to be a cultural expression space for the youth.
This was highlighted during the talk show “Innovation of Cultural Festivals in The Technological Era,” which took place in the GIK UGM meeting room on Thursday (Jun. 6).
The event, organized by GIK UGM in collaboration with the Australian Embassy, featured several speakers, including Dr. Oki Rahadianto, Director of YouSure UGM, and Cameron Frost, Country Manager of Megatix Indonesia, moderated by Dr. Alfatika Dini, Head of the UGM Office of International Affairs.
Dr. Rahadianto stated that cultural festivals that combine cultural elements with technology help merge local culture with the global world. They provide a space for young people to express themselves not only to their peers but also to their social environment.
“Today’s younger generation is indeed globally oriented but still connected to local culture due to technological advancements, leading to noticeable re-innovation,” said Dr. Rahadianto.
He added that GIK UGM can bridge the gap in the need for cultural expression and innovation among youth through meetings, connections between campus and external activities, and knowledge development through interactions with senior practitioners.
From a practitioner’s perspective, Cameron Frost mentioned that their company consistently provides a platform for external audiences to experience the beauty of Indonesian culture and arts. Megatix is a ticketing company that helps promoters sell tickets for various attractions, events, and concerts.
“Bali and Yogyakarta are examples of how culture plays a crucial role for international tourists. We continue to strive to promote cultural activities in other regions of Indonesia,” said Frost.
Product development is a top priority for Megatix as it aims to deliver optimal service to local and international audiences. Frost noted that he and his team spend much time leveraging technology.
“Technology helps understand visitor behavior and motivations, impacting cultural awareness and creating meeting places for people with shared values,” he explained.
As part of the GIK Menyapa program, this talk show aims to inspire, connect, and empower academics, practitioners, and communities to share and collaborate. The program seeks to encourage collaboration that fosters mutual growth and strengthens the essence of untapped potential within the university environment.
By embracing culture, innovation, creativity, technology, collaboration, sustainability, and opportunities, GIK UGM creates a space where creativity can thrive and new ideas emerge.
Author: Dita
Editor: Gusti Grehenson