Kalimantan, Indonesia (DT) – Diploma Times Editor-in-Chief and renowned social worker, Shashi Kumar, recently embarked on an international visit to Indonesia, where he had the unique honor of meeting King Mulawarman of the Kutai Kingdom. The meeting took place in the heart of East Kalimantan, a region steeped in history and tradition, where the Kutai royal family has long been recognized for its dedication to preserving Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
During the meeting, Shashi Kumar and King Mulawarman engaged in a deep conversation on the importance of cultural preservation in an increasingly globalized world. King Mulawarman, a respected figure in Indonesia’s cultural and historical landscape, spoke passionately about the responsibility of royal families to uphold the traditions and values of their ancestors, even in a modern democratic state like Indonesia.
The king highlighted how the royal families, though no longer holding political power, still play a vital role in maintaining the cultural identity of their regions.
READ MORE : Pope Francis arrives in Indonesia to begin ambitious Asia-Pacific tour
Shashi Kumar echoed the King’s sentiments, acknowledging the immense significance of cultural preservation in today’s rapidly evolving global society. “It’s inspiring to see how the royal families of Indonesia, especially in Kutai, have held onto their history and values, while also adapting to modern times,” Kumar stated. “This blend of tradition and progress is a testament to the resilience of Indonesia’s ancient civilization.”
The Kutai Kingdom, considered one of the oldest kingdoms in Indonesia, has a deep historical connection with the country’s roots. While the political landscape of Indonesia has changed, becoming a democratic nation where the government is run by the people, the royal families have retained their cultural and historical significance. The royal family of Kutai has been particularly instrumental in preserving the traditions, ceremonies, and cultural practices that date back centuries.
In the meeting, Kumar and King Mulawarman discussed how such heritage plays a crucial role in educating the younger generation. The Kutai Kingdom, with its majestic palaces, ancient rituals, and time-honored traditions, serves as a living museum for the people of Indonesia and the world, reminding all of the importance of honoring one’s past while moving forward.
As Indonesia continues to thrive as a democratic nation, its royal heritage remains alive and well. The government has also recognized the importance of preserving its ancient civilizations, supporting efforts to maintain historical sites and promote cultural tourism. The Kutai royal family’s efforts to keep their history alive are a shining example of how the essence of a nation’s civilization can coexist with modern governance.
The meeting between Shashi Kumar and King Mulawarman symbolizes the ongoing collaboration between nations and cultures in the pursuit of preserving historical legacies, while addressing the challenges of today’s interconnected world. Both agreed that the lessons of the past are crucial for building a more inclusive and culturally aware global society.
As the Editor-in-Chief of Diploma Times, Kumar plans to share more insights from this remarkable encounter in an upcoming edition, offering readers a deeper look into Indonesia’s royal legacy and the significance of cultural preservation in an era of change.