TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The candidate for UNESCO Director-General, Khaled el-Enany, highlighted Indonesia's role in contributing to the world's cultural heritage. The professor of Egyptology at Helwan University praised the diversity of Indonesia's cultural heritage.
"Indonesia holds a special place in my vision for UNESCO, as it epitomizes what our organization stands for," Khaled told Tempo at the Egyptian Ambassador's residence in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
The former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt mentioned that Indonesia embodies the motto "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika," which means unity in diversity.
Khaled stated that this motto reflects UNESCO's primary mission to foster unity through respect for cultural diversity.
"With over 600 ethnic groups and more than 700 local languages, Indonesia's vibrant cultural identity demonstrates the extraordinary potential of cultural pluralism," he said.
Specifically, he expressed admiration for the presence of the Silaturahmi Tunnel connecting the Istiqlal Mosque with the Jakarta Cathedral. According to him, the bridge symbolizes the country's commitment to supporting people of different religious beliefs living together peacefully and respecting each other.
Furthermore, Khaled mentioned that Indonesia's wealth of values and traditions has not received proper global recognition and visibility within the framework of UNESCO.
He envisions an improvement that encompasses an increase in the number of cultural heritage sites and deeper involvement and support for cultural heritage.
"Cultural heritage sites should not just be labels or symbols of status; they should function as living heritage tools for education, community involvement, and intercultural understanding," he stated.
Khaled views Indonesia as a leading global tourist destination. Therefore, he encourages Indonesia to carefully promote cultural tourism. He also supports aligning economic development with the protection of cultural heritage, local identity, and social cohesion.
"UNESCO should guide and support countries in developing sustainable tourism strategies, carefully balancing economic opportunities with the preservation of authenticity, biodiversity, and fragile ecosystems," he expressed.
Khaled arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. This visit is part of Khaled's campaign as a candidate for UNESCO Director-General. He is also scheduled to meet with several Indonesian ministers, including the Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon.
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