Learning Indonesian Politics Through Javanese Culture
Wednesday, 22 October, 2008 | 20:50 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:To Bu Thuy Diem, wayang kulit (leather shadow puppets) are truly unique. “People’s lives can be recounted through them,” she said. Bu, a Vietnamese national, was one among the many participants attending the Javanese Culture International Conference, held in Purwokerto starting last Monday until October 23. “I am giving a presentation on the origins of wayang kulit,” she said in faltering Indonesian.

Diem, 21, studied Javanese culture -- particularly the origins of wayang kulit, because there is much similarity between the Vietnamese and Indonesian culture. The wayang kulit, a shadow play full of moral messages, was introduced in Vietnam in 2006. “I think Vietnamese culture is similar to Javanese culture,” said Diem.

Diem said she is beginning to understand more about the world of puppetry. She learnt puppetry through Javanese scripts and discussions with Javanese artists.

Meanwhile, Ashley Arcy, from Wyoming, USA, wants to study Indonesian politics through Javanese culture. Arcy, who is studying at Semarang’s Diponegoro University majoring in Indonesian Literature, said she wanted to study relations between Indonesian politics and the Javanese culture. According to her, Javanese culture has affected much of the Indonesian politics. “After I complete this study on Javanese culture, I will study political science,” she said.

To Arcy, the Javanese culture is very different from other cultures in Indonesia. Many of its ancient philosophies still serve as references and guidelines for today’s Javanese people.

Diem and Arcy are just two of the many expatriates participating in the conference on Javanese culture. According to organizing committee chairman, Yatman, at least seven countries sent delegations to attend the event. They have come from Japan, Vietnam, the Netherlands, France, Germany and Australia. It could well be that these foreigners know more about the culture than the Javanese people themselves.

ARIS ANDRIANTO