VIVAnews - Bali has been proposing three sites as parts of the world’s cultural heritage since 2002 to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The sites include Pakerisan River Basin Area (DAS), Jatiluwih farming area, and Ayun Park.
Culture and Tourism Department’s Director General for History and Archeology Hari Untoro explained on the matter during the campaign of world’s cultural heritage management in Denpasar on Wednesday, December 16.
“The UNESCO has listed the proposal. However, there are still many requirements to be met such as confirmation from the management agency to maintain their existence if the sites are approved as the world’s cultural heritage,” Untoro said.
He also welcomed Bali’s proposal of putting forward cultural landscape which is the existence of subak (irrigation) that has been known by the world. “Proposing for the cultural heritage is pretty complicated,” he said.
UNESCO declared a similar site in the Philippines as one of the world’s cultural heritage. Afterwards, a very quick change occurred among the people with the increasing number of tourists. “If it can’t be controlled, we’re afraid it could endanger the surrounding and ruin natural balance”.
Therefore, he expects Bali could learn a lesson from the case in the Philippines by being committed to keep natural sustainability especially if the sites are approved as cultural heritages.
“I have a great faith in the concept embraced by the people of Bali which is Tri Hita Karana. [I believe] it’ll be able to keep the expected balance,” Untoro said.
He is also hoping the concept would allow the Balinese to overcome various challenges. The confirmation of site management is expected to convince UNESCO to set the sites as the world’s cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, Bali Cultural Agency Chief, Ida Bagus Sedawa hopes the declaration would be done in 2010. Following the announcement, collaboration with an independent and complementary which consists of academics, traditional leaders and NGOs, is required.
“The institution will educate the people about keeping the sustainability of the sites’ surroundings,” Sedawa said. After the sites are set as parts of the world’s cultural heritage, there will be responsibility increase due to the enhancement of people’s economic interest.
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Translated by: Nataya Ermanti
