CCN, CILEGON — The Forum of Cultural Journalists (FORWARD) has announced the launch of Purnama Budaya, a monthly cultural discussion program to be held on the 15th of every month at the Official Residence of the Mayor of Cilegon. The initiative is designed to revitalize the residence’s function as an active, productive, and collaborative cultural heritage site.
FORWARD Secretary Arise Firdaus stated that Purnama Budaya was initiated from a shared awareness of the need for a sustainable and inclusive forum for cultural discourse.
“The Mayor’s Official Residence holds strong historical and symbolic value. Through Purnama Budaya, we aim to transform it from a mere symbol into a living space for the exchange of ideas, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and the strengthening of the cultural ecosystem,” Arise said.
He added that the monthly discussions are intended to foster grounded, critical, and relevant dialogue addressing cultural issues and contemporary social dynamics.
Meanwhile, Ayatullah Khumaeni, Chair of the Cilegon City Cultural Council, welcomed FORWARD’s initiative and noted that Purnama Budaya aligns with the spirit of sustainable preservation and utilization of cultural heritage sites.
“A cultural heritage site should not remain a static symbol. It must be brought to life through intellectual and cultural activities. FORWARD’s initiative is important in positioning the Official Residence as a meeting point for ideas and cultural collaboration,” Ayatullah remarked.
In addition to Purnama Budaya, FORWARD plans to take on a strategic role in the Regional Cultural Week, scheduled to take place over one week in October, coinciding with FORWARD’s anniversary month. The event is expected to serve as both a cultural celebration and a moment of regional reflection.
FORWARD also expressed its readiness to actively participate in welcoming and supporting the 2026 National Press Day (HPN) in Banten, as part of its commitment to strengthening the role of cultural journalism at both regional and national levels.
Through these initiatives, FORWARD reaffirms its position as a cross-disciplinary collaborative platform that places culture as a foundation for thinking, acting, and building civilization.
