Jakarta Hosts ICOM-CECA 2026, Welcomes Delegates from 35 Countries
Reported by Budhi Firmansyah Surapati | Translated by Maria Inggita
Jakarta Vice Governor Rano Karno officially opened the 2026 annual conference of the International Council of Museums - Committee for Education and Cultural Action (ICOM-CECA) at the Grand Theater of Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) in Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday (11/10). The five-day event brings together delegates from 35 countries and runs through Saturday (11/14).
Cultural heritage connects Jakarta to its past, strengthens its identity, and brings communities together
"It is a great honor for the Jakarta Provincial Government to welcome all delegates attending the 2026 annual conference of the ICOM-CECA Committee. We are proud to host this international gathering," Rano said.
Jakarta to Host ICOM-CECA Annual Conference 2026He noted that Jakarta is a city shaped by diverse cultures, traditions, and communities. This diversity defines Jakarta's identity as an open and welcoming city and reflects the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, or unity in diversity.
Rano emphasized that as Jakarta advances toward becoming a global city that is competitive and inclusive, culture will remain at the heart of its progress.
"Cultural heritage connects Jakarta to its past, strengthens its identity, and brings communities together," he highlighted.
Rano expressed hope that the conference, themed "Museums in a Divided World", would foster dialogue, raise awareness, and instill a sense of belonging.
"Museums are more than just places to preserve the past. I want museums in Jakarta to be places where everyone can learn, connect, and experience culture firsthand," he shared.
As Jakarta prepares to celebrate its 500th anniversary in 2027, Rano stressed that museums play an important role in sharing the city's stories and connecting Jakarta's cultural heritage with Indonesia's future.
"Developing museums and preserving cultural heritage require international collaboration. I hope this conference will help establish long-term partnerships through knowledge sharing, joint research, and cultural education programs," he said.
Rano added that Jakarta had been selected to host the 2027 World Cities Culture Summit. He expressed hope that the opportunity would further strengthen Jakarta's position as a global city where culture plays an important role in development.
"We look forward to building stronger cooperation with cities and cultural institutions around the world. We also look forward to welcoming you back in 2027 to celebrate Jakarta's 500th anniversary and continue the partnerships we have built through this conference," he said.
