Pangkalpinang – To commemorate the 78th Indonesia Independence Day, Bangka Belitung Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports Office (Disparbudkepora) held a Pantun Recitation Competition entitled “Spirit of Independence” at Disparbudkepora Hall on Friday (11/08/2023).
Accompanied by Sub Coordinator of Traditional Culture and Arts Pupung P Damayanti, Head of Culture Divison Agus Setio Rini officially opened the competition. The opening ceremony was also followed by all Disparbudkepora personnel.
In her opening remark, Agus said that pantun is a Malay cultural heritage which needs to be preserved. Pantun is an oral tradition used to express thoughts and feelings through Malay verses.
“Pantun can be a way to express ideas, to entertain, and to serve as a social communication. Pantun also serves as a guideline in communicating, such as using polite words, and encouraging mutual respect,” she said.
Furthermore, she said that this competition brought the spirit of independence as the theme. She hoped the participants could recall the services of Indonesian heroes and patriots in fighting for independence.
Three figures were acted as judges: pantun Cik Kario, culture observer Sukma Wijaya, and culture-bearer Hazirian. (RZ/ZE)
