The CHANDI 2025 Conference (Culture, Heritage, Arts, Narrative, Diplomacy, and Innovation) is taking place in Bali. An opening ceremony dinner was held on the evening of September 2nd in Sanur. Participants include representatives from 39 countries and regional leaders from across Indonesia.
The central theme of the conference is 'Culture for the Future.' In his speech, Culture Minister Fadli Zon emphasized that culture is not only a legacy of the past, but also a guide shaping the future. He described culture as an instrument of peace and a driving force for sustainable economic growth.
One of the highlights was the 'People’s Party,' simultaneously held at Discovery Mall in Kuta and the Denpasar Art Center. This part of the program was open to the public and showcased living culture outside the formal context.
Additionally, Penglipuran Village was officially declared a 'Village for Cultural Development' and included in the list of places for delegates to visit.
The key outcome was the adoption of the Bali Cultural Declaration 2025, proclaiming culture as the foundation of sustainable development, innovation, and international cooperation.
This declaration, under the slogan “Culture for the Future,” contains several key points:
- Culture is perceived not only as heritage but as the foundation of identity, creativity, and innovation; a tool for stability and sustainable development.
- The link between culture and sustainable development is emphasized, in adapting to climate challenges and strengthening communities.
- The principles of digital cultural presence: using AI and technology to preserve cultural heritage, its study, and rights to cultural expression.
- Emphasis on youth and creative industries as drivers of cultural transformation and entrepreneurship.
- International cooperation in preserving cultural objects against illegal artifact trafficking, and effective cultural diplomacy as an instrument of peace and understanding.
Bali intends to remain a quaint, cozy island. No one plans to turn it into a new Singapore with a forest of skyscrapers, although elements of modern infrastructure— including multilevel junctions —are already appearing in plans.
The focus, however, is on something else: the value of those rare places where culture remains not a decoration but a living part of everyday life will only grow. While traditions are merely postulated elsewhere, on the Island of Gods, they can be observed daily. This is what creates the true, subtle, elusive atmosphere of Bali, which one doesn't want to lose.
Sources: chandi2025, voi
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