President Jokowi Watches Wayang Kulit Show
Presidetn Jokowi hands over the puppet to Shadow Puppet Master (Dalang) Ki Manteb Soedarsono in a Wayang Kulit Show, in the Courtyard of the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Friday (2/8). (Photo by: OJI/PR)
In celebration of the 74th Indonesian Independence Day, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo accompanied by First Lady Ibu Iriana Joko Widodo watched a Javanese Wayang Kulit (Leather Shadow Puppets Show), titled “Kresno Jumeneng Ratu” (Krishna Becomes the King) in the Courtyard of the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Friday (2/8).
Midway through the show, President Jokowi switched the puppets with Shadow Puppet Master (Dalang) Ki Manteb Soedarsono after a performance of a number of dancers and singers.
Previously, Minister of State Secretary Pratikno, as the committee chair said that Ki Manteb Sudarsono protested the committee due to limited time of preparation.
“We live in the fast-paced era, so the preparation for this event should be fast too,” Pratikno said.
In the meantime, the Minister also invited the people to offer prayers during times of the earthquake on the west coast that recently occurred in Sumedang, Banten, and West Lampung.
“Let us pray for a moment, hopefully, there are no victims in the earthquake zone and everything can be handled as well,” he said.
On the occasion, various artists were also present to perform, including Soimah, Didi Kempot, Edo Kondologit, Endah Laras, Butet Kartarajasa, and Cak Lontong.
“Apart from wayang kulit, this event also showcased a number of arts from other regions. The show aims to preserve the national culture of various regions in Indonesia,” Pratikno added. (RSF/OJI/ES)
Translated by: Syarifah Aisyah
Edited by: Muhardi/Mia Medyana
