Surakarta Indonesia, WorldWartaGlobal.Id
The progressive steps of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat under the leadership of His Majesty Sampeyan Ingkang Sinuwun Kanjeng Susuhunan Pakoe Boewono XIV were once again evident. On Tuesday (11/18/2025), the King, who is familiarly known as the "Gen Z King," warmly welcomed a visit from lecturers of Wahid Hasyim University (Unwahas) Semarang and special guests from South Korea at the Bangsal Sasono Nalendra.
The guest delegation was led by Dr. Hetiyasari, SH., M.Kn, a young lecturer from Unwahas's Law Study Program. This historic meeting was received directly by His Majesty PB XIV, who was accompanied by his beloved daughter, GKR Devi, and the Palace Spokesperson, KPA. Singonagoro.
Digitizing Ancient Manuscripts for the Character Education of Today's Generation
The warm and cordial meeting discussed profound topics, ranging from the preservation of ancestral manuscripts and Javanese customs to the challenges of customary law in the modern era. Through his spokesperson, KPA. Singonagoro, His Majesty PB XIV highlighted the importance of digital transformation in preserving cultural heritage.
"Sinuwun conveyed that there is a wealth of knowledge within the ancestral manuscripts. He hopes that digitizing these manuscripts can serve as a means of character education for the current generation," stated KPA. Singonagoro, quoting the King's message.
This digitization initiative is considered a strategic step to make traditional knowledge treasures more widely accessible, especially to younger audiences, ensuring that noble values are not eroded by time.
Cross-Generational Collaboration and a Non-Coercive Approach
One of the key points emphasized by PB XIV was the importance of input from various generations, both older and younger, for the palace's progress. KPA. Singonagoro affirmed, "Sinuwun hopes to continuously receive input from both older and younger generations. This is necessary so that the palace can move forward and remain relevant in the present era."
Furthermore, this Gen Z King conveyed an inclusive and persuasive philosophy of cultural preservation. "Culture cannot force people to like it, but rather, it's about how we can make people love the culture," explained KPA. Singonagoro, relaying Sinuwun's profound message.
As a tangible form of openness towards the younger generation, PB XIV revealed his plan to recruit more young people from the Millennial and Gen Z generations to join as Abdi Dalem (palace attendants). This step is expected to create cultural regeneration that is fresher, more inclusive, and sustainable at the Surakarta Palace.
Appreciation from Academia and Cultural Diplomacy with South Korea
Dr. Hetiyasari, SH., M.Kn, who led the visit, expressed her admiration after discussing directly with His Majesty PB XIV. She described the King as a smart, visionary young leader with strong academic insight.
"This is a pride for Surakarta and Indonesia to have a Gen Z King who is smart and has excellent academic ability," praised Dr. Hetiyasari.
She added that although brief, the discussion was very substantial. "A brief discussion with Sinuhun XIV about culture, tradition, customs, law, and society. He is very wise, has profound insight, and is open to input," she said.
The presence of guests from South Korea in this visit also signifies the strengthening of cultural diplomacy relations built by the Surakarta Palace on the international stage. This meeting opens opportunities for broader collaboration, not only between the palace and academics but also with international networks for cultural research and the study of Javanese tradition.
Commitment Towards a Modern and Relevant Palace
This visit was welcomed positively as a form of the Surakarta Palace's openness under the leadership of PB XIV. Through the progressive ideas conveyed, the King's commitment to modernizing the palace institution without abandoning its traditional roots and firmly held noble values is clear.
With this new spirit, the Surakarta Palace is no longer merely a living museum or a symbol of the past, but rather a dynamic cultural center that actively bridges collaboration across generations and nations, towards a more open and sustainable future.
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