Reviving Cultural Heritage in a Global Context to Prevent It from Becoming “Wastro Lungset Ing Sampiran”
Opinion of Prof. Dr. Drs. Dhanang Respati Puguh, M.Hum.
(dhanang.respati@live.undip.ac.id)
The Faculty of Humanities (FIB) at Diponegoro University (Undip) is home to many distinguished academics in their respective fields. One of them is Prof. Dr. Drs. Dhanang Respati Puguh, M.Hum., a Professor of History at FIB Undip who has dedicated over 30 years to academia.
The Public Relations team of FIB Undip had the opportunity to interview Prof. Dhanang about his views on Javanese history and culture. His expertise is now focused on Cultural History, particularly Javanese cultural politics.
History for the Present and the Future
As a historian, Prof. Dhanang does not merely aim to study the past but also seeks to contribute to the present and the future. He emphasizes the importance of cultural politics in preserving and utilizing cultural heritage.
According to him, the government must design policies that support the preservation, development, and utilization of cultural heritage for the benefit of national character-building and cultural diplomacy. He believes that history is not just about memorizing the past but about drawing wisdom and lessons from past events.
“Indonesia is rich in cultural heritage, and it would be a shame if it is not utilized. In Javanese terms, this is like ‘Wastro Lungset Ing Sampiran,’ meaning a fine, valuable fabric that has become wrinkled and neglected. History and culture must be integral to national development,” he stated.
Cultural Preservation through Real Action
Beyond research and writing, Prof. Dhanang is also actively involved in various cultural preservation activities. He frequently delivers lectures and outreach programs and participates in traditional arts performances such as ketoprak, wayang orang, and karawitan within the FIB Undip community.
For him, loving cultural heritage is one way to enhance nationalism. He hopes that society, especially the younger generation, will appreciate and preserve culture as part of the nation’s identity.
Support from the Faculty of Humanities at Diponegoro University
The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Undip, Prof. Dr. Alamsyah, M.Hum., expressed his support for Prof. Dhanang’s ideas and expertise. According to him, academic contributions in historical and cultural studies are crucial for the development of the humanities and the efforts to preserve cultural heritage.
“We fully support various initiatives aimed at strengthening national cultural identity and history. The research and dedication of Prof. Dhanang are essential parts of the Faculty of Humanities’ mission to continuously contribute to knowledge and society,” said Prof. Alamsyah.
Prof. Dr. Drs. Dhanang Respati Puguh, M.Hum.
As an academic and cultural expert, Prof. Dr. Drs. Dhanang Respati Puguh, M.Hum., has made significant contributions to the fields of history and culture, particularly in Java. His dedication to research, teaching, and cultural preservation demonstrates that history is not merely about the past but also a source of inspiration for future development.
With his passion and concrete efforts, Prof. Dhanang continues to make history a guiding force in life, providing insight, wisdom, and pride for the Indonesian nation.