PORTALJABAR, SUBANG REGENCY - A cultural festival attended by 75 delegates from four countries was held lively at the Fortress Monument in Subang Regency on Saturday (July 18, 2026). Titled the 1st West Java International Fun Folk Festival 2026, the festival aims to strengthen international friendship through arts and culture.

Samantha Dewi Erwan Setiawan, Advisor to the Indonesian Inter-Professional Women's Association (PPLIPI) West Java and Chair of the PKK Movement Team (TP PKK) of West Java Province, emphasized that culture is a universal language that can unite people from various countries, even though they have different language backgrounds and traditions.

"I've always believed that culture is a language that everyone can understand. Even though we come from different countries, speak different languages, and even have different traditions," Samantha said.

He added that various artistic expressions can be a medium of communication that touches the heart and strengthens relationships between communities at the global level.

"Through a dance we can express respect, through a song we can share happiness, and through an artistic performance we can build friendships without having to use many words," he said.

Samantha believes that the 2026 West Java International Fun Folk Festival holds a far greater significance than simply showcasing artistic performances. This festival serves as a platform for mutual understanding, appreciation of diversity, and strengthening international brotherhood.

"That's why festivals like this have such special significance. They're not just cultural performances, but also spaces for mutual respect and strengthening international brotherhood," he said.

She also expressed pride in West Java's hosting of this international event. Samantha hopes all delegates will take home positive impressions of West Java, not only in terms of cultural performances but also in the friendliness of its people.

"Hopefully, every guest who comes will not only enjoy this performance, but also return home with a message of the hospitality of the West Javanese people, their rich culture, and the spirit of togetherness that is our identity," he said.

On that occasion, Samantha conveyed a message to the younger generation to not abandon the nation's culture. She believes that culture is an identity that is both a source of pride and a source of strength for Indonesia in the eyes of the world.

"Never think of our culture as something old-fashioned. In fact, culture is the identity that makes us known and appreciated by the world," he stressed.

He added that loving culture means preserving the nation's identity while opening up a space for mutually respectful dialogue with cultures from various countries.

"When we love our culture, we are preserving our national identity and simultaneously opening up a space for dignified dialogue with other cultures," Samantha concluded.

In her closing remarks, Samantha expressed her appreciation for Color of Indonesia and all those who organized the festival. She expressed her hope that the West Java International Fun Folk Festival would become a growing international event and bridge friendships between West Java and the global community.

WEST JAVA PUBLIC RELATIONS
Head of the Communication and Information Service of West Java Province
Adi Komar