CCN, Cilegon – The Cilegon City Cultural Congress held a key agenda on the appointment of the Chairperson of the Cilegon City Cultural Council, the accountability report of the 2018–2021 DKC Chair, and cultural recommendations to serve as a strategic direction for the long-term continuity of the cultural organization. The event took place at the Cilegon City DPRD Hall on Wednesday, April 22, 2025.
Yuli Hadiana, the event’s organizing committee chair, explained that the congress was held as a special initiative, not a routine agenda, aimed at strengthening the organizational foundation to face the challenges of cultural preservation.
“It is more of a confirmation process, as procedurally, only one candidate met the requirements and has been officially appointed,” she said.
Yuli emphasized that the selection process for the chairperson was based on the candidate’s track record in cultural activities and sensitivity to local cultural issues. Although around 130–170 invitations were distributed, only about 70 participants attended the event.
Nonetheless, this did not diminish the enthusiasm of those present. More than just a leadership transition, the congress also laid out a grand vision for the organization’s future.
“We aim to establish a strong foundation for the next five to ten years, one of which is to become a strategic partner of the government in the Regional Cultural Advancement Program (PPKD),” Yuli added.
During the discussion session, several speakers highlighted the importance of cultural literacy among the public. They reminded attendees that cultural heritage consists not only of tangible objects such as heirlooms and manuscripts, but also intangible elements like dance, rituals, and traditional knowledge, as recognized in Law No. 5 of 2017 on the Advancement of Culture.
Meanwhile, the Cilegon City Government, through the Education and Culture Office (Dindikbud), expressed its appreciation for the successful organization of the congress.
Heni Anita Susila, Head of Dindikbud Cilegon, stated that the congress marked a significant shift in the cultural organization landscape of the region.
“The transformation from an Arts Council to a Cultural Council is a vital step, as it now accommodates all elements of culture,” said Heni.
She added that the congress had been delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, around 130 people registered, representing various art communities such as dance, theater, film, pencak silat, and historical study.
With a new chairperson elected, the DKKC is expected to strengthen its synergy with the government and become a driving force in advancing culture in Cilegon City.
“Our shared vision is to make Cilegon not only an industrial city but also a cultural city,” Heni concluded. (***)
