PRESS RELEASE

COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA TEAM OF THE 10TH WORLD WATER FORUM

NO.123/SP/TKM-WORLDWATERFORUM2024/05/2024

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UNESCO, Indonesia Commit to Maintaining Subak Preservation as World Cultural Heritage

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in collaboration with the Indonesian government, is committed to preserving and sustaining Bali's agricultural irrigation system, known as Subak, as part of the world's cultural heritage.

This was stated by UNESCO Deputy Director-General Xing Qu during a discussion forum titled “Subak and Spice Routes: Local Wisdom Water Management” at the 10^th World Water Forum, in BICC, Nusa Dua, Bali, on Tuesday, 21 May.

The Subak irrigation system has persisted for millennia thanks to conservation efforts over generations. Subak was designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO on 29 June 2012, and UNESCO has since remained steadfast in its dedication to preserving it.

Subak, managed by the Balinese traditional society using an irrigation mechanism based on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy (balance and harmony between humans, environment, and God), is an excellent example of harmonizing the interaction between water and humanity.

“One of the efforts, such as advocating for the protection of water-related cultural heritage to tackle water issues in the 21^st century, is very closely related to the Subak context," Xing Qu stated.

Xing Qu also elaborated on several initiatives and programs implemented by UNESCO to enhance promotion and education regarding sustainable water management. Several initiatives included educational assistance on water management, capacity development, and cross-border water cooperation facilitation. This endeavor resonates with the sentiments expressed during the 10th World Water Forum in Bali.

"We must reconsider our relationship with water, including how we consume and process it. We will also release new initiatives in Indonesia to support more sustainable water management," Xing Qu stated.

Xing Qu also expressed admiration for the lives of the Balinese people, who are inextricably linked to water. From birth to death, Hindus in Bali perform a variety of rites and rituals that use water.

Consequently, if the people can no longer access water and a crisis ensues, then this condition will become a threat. According to him, should such an event occur, the repercussions of the water crisis's will not only affect the inhabitants of Bali, a prominent international tourist destination, but potentially the entire global community as well.

Meanwhile, during the same discussion, Hilmar Farid, the Director-General for Culture at the Indonesian Education and Culture Ministry, stated that local knowledge of water management is ingrained in Indonesian society.

For thousands of years, the people of Nusantara have cultivated water as the main source of life. This local wisdom constitutes a vast 'library of civilization' that provides learning and can contribute to global culture.

"If we are willing to study this treasure thoroughly, I am confident that we will all be able to find solutions to the water challenges we are currently experiencing. Bali already possesses fundamental water management values, namely solidarity and connectedness. Those who live downstream and enjoy water from upstream must also be able to be grateful to the people upstream," Hilmar said.

According to him, water management is extremely complex because it necessitates comprehensive management and cross-border collaboration. Subak is a good example because this water management system offers both effective and sustainable methods. 

The Central Indonesian Hindu Youth Association (DPP Peradah) Secretary I Ketut Eriadi Ariana underscored the philosophy of water for the people of Bali. He stated that Balinese people saw water as a representation of mankind as a whole, both internally and externally.

"When the spring disappears, the Balinese suffer. There are old Balinese manuscripts about water management and the many principles for protecting and caring for water. Subak is not just a terrace, but a form of solidarity," he stated during the discussion.

To overcome a variety of water-related challenges, collaboration is required, including empowering the community, enhancing the welfare of farmers, and providing sustainable education. "I emphasize that world water governance must be based on the values of solidarity and connectivity so that we can avoid water disasters," he reiterated.

During the 10th World Water Forum, attendees and guests will have the opportunity to see two exhibitions titled “Telu, Spice Market, Balinese Culture Art " and "Subak Cultural Landscape" at the Pasifika Museum in Nusa Dua, Bali, from 21 to 25 May 2024. (Ni Ketut Sudiani/Ayu Sulistyowati/Firda Puri/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/SC/Flow)

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For further information, please contact:

Director General of Public Information and Communications of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics – Usman Kansong  (0816785320).

PCO of the 10^th World Water Forum - Dede Ariwibowo (08111830020)

Get more information at https://infopublik.id/kategori/world-water-forum and https://s.id/worldwaterforumpedia