Heaptalk, Jakarta — During his visit to West Kutai during the Dahau Festival, President Joko Widodo was awarded the honorary title of customary nobility from the West Kutai Regency Large Customary Institution.
The honorary title is Ajiq Tatau Narakng Bulau, Penimakng Sookng Mantiiq, Penerajuuq Bawe Ayaakng which means the one who has the right and authority to form and determine the best sons and daughters of the nation to carry out tasks aimed at peace and prosperity.
The symbolic handover of the title was carried out by the Head of the West Kutai Large Customary Institution Manar Dimansyah Gamas at Itho Square, Barong Tongkok District (11//3). Joko Widodo expressed his gratitude for giving this title. He said, “This is an honor for me. Thank you.”
Jokowi admitted that he was happy to be present at Tanaa Purai Ngeriman land to witness the Dahau Festival as one of the annual agendas that the people of West Kutai look forward to. Tanaa Purai Ngeriman, as West Kutai is called, means fertile land with abundant fortune. The Dahau Festival is held to commemorate the 24th anniversary of West Kutai. According to Jokowi, this festival is very good and worth keeping. “Happy 24th birthday to the Regent and all the residents of West Kutai,” he voiced.
On the occasion, Jokowi said that Indonesia is a large country with extraordinary diversity, having 714 tribes. He emphasized, “Therefore, our obligation is to preserve and advance our culture and encourage creative industries in the region. Through this kind of cultural festival, we can learn from each other about the rich traditions and cultural values, tolerance, and harmony that have been passed down by our ancestors.”
Further, President Joko Widodo appreciated the people of West Kutai for their efforts to maintain the state motto, namely Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. This can be seen from the harmony and mutual cooperation carried out by the West Kutai residents, including in preparing the Dahau Festival.
“In West Kutai, there are the Bahau Dayak Tribe, the Aoheng Dayak Tribe, the Tunjung Dayak Tribe, the Kenyah Dayak Tribe, the Benuaq Dayak Tribe, and the Malay Tribe who have different traditions but live in harmony side by side, respect each other and are full of joy,” Jokowi added. Closing his remarks, he asked that this spirit continue to be maintained for the sake of the unity, integrity, as well as advancement of Indonesia and West Kutai. (Translated by Sinta)
