(SOLO) The Center of Excellence Javanologi (PUI Javanologi) Universitas Sebelas Maret held a Focus Group Discussion activity with the title Formation of the Golden Triangle as an Arts and Cultural Tourism Destination between PUI Javanologi, the Indonesian Institute of the Arts Surakarta and UPT. Central Java Cultural Park (TBJT). This event was held in the Hall of the R.Ng Building. Ranggawarsita Floor 1 Javanologi UNS on Thursday, 29 February 2024. The aim of this activity is based on the fact that these three loci have the opportunity to be developed into a “Golden Triangle” which can become a new tourist destination in the city of Surakarta. ISI Surakarta has advantages in developing arts education and cultural practices. TBJT excels in documenting and preserving culture and PUI Javanologi UNS has advantages in research networks, diaspora, media and scientific publications..
Head of PUI Javanologi, Prof. Sahid Teguh Widodo, S.S., M.Hum., Ph.D. in his speech, said that the discussion on the formation of the Golden Triangle was a sexy and interesting idea regarding the contribution of the three loci in the tourism sector in the city of Surakarta. Arts and cultural tourism is still a reliable tourist attraction, considering that the Surakarta area lacks natural tourism, interest in natural beauty has changed to art and culture. This initiative is also branding. Apart from that, it can strengthen cooperation between PUI Javanologi, ISI Surakarta and UPT. Central Java Cultural Park. Moreover, PUI Javanologi has a global Javanese Diaspora network that can be invited to collaborate to contribute and enliven this plan.
This idea was welcomed by the Rector of ISI Surakarta, who was represented on this occasion by Dr. Sunardi, S.Sn., M.Sn. (Head of LP2MP3M ISI Surakarta). The invitation to establish a golden triangle of arts and cultural tourism destinations in the city of Surakarta seems like a tit for tat. ISI Surakarta even has programs such as arts-based Edu-Tourism and Student Final Project-based, leading events such as Solo Menari, Hari Wayang Sedunia, Gamelan Festival, Batik Fest, and so on. The ISI Surakarta campus is also supported by facilities such as Arena Theatre, Grand Theatre, Pendhapa, Open Theater, and so on.
Suratno, S.Pd, M.Pd (Head of UPT. Central Java Cultural Park) admitted that he agreed with this initiation. Along the way, the Cultural Park was built as a place for artists’ ideas to work, supported by the Wisma Seni, Arena Theater, Pendhapa facilities as a place to exhibit the work of regional artists in Central Java Province. Even in 2024, the Central Java Cultural Park UPT will focus on Fine Arts performances and exhibitions. The Focus Group Discussion was also attended by representatives of the Surakarta City Culture and Tourism Office, artists, academics and cultural figures.
