Manado Independent School (MIS) had the honor of receiving a visit from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology on November 12, 2024, particularly from the Directorate General of Culture. This visit was part of the activities in support of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) session in Paraguay. The focus was on providing assistance and documentation of traditional cultural practices, including kolintang music, a cultural heritage of North Sulawesi, which is actively promoted at MIS. The event was coordinated by the Director of Development and Utilization of Culture, Mrs. Irini Dewi Wanti, who delegated Mr. Wahyu Jatmiko, a First Cultural Expert, and Mr. Wiyadi, a staff director, to attend.
Kolintang, a traditional musical instrument native to North Sulawesi, has become a central feature of MIS students’ performances at various school events. During the visit, MIS high school students demonstrated their enthusiasm and musical skill, performing several songs using kolintang, ranging from regional folk tunes to national songs. This performance was a warm welcome for the Ministry representatives and highlighted the school’s commitment to preserving local culture. The presence of government officials not only reinforced the importance of cultural documentation but also recognized the efforts of MIS students in promoting Indonesia’s cultural heritage, especially that of North Sulawesi.
The students were deeply appreciative of this opportunity. Mychelle Roring, an 11th-grade student and kolintang melody player, shared her excitement: “This was my first time playing kolintang and being recorded for an event, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity. I’m proud of the talent I’ve been given. Kolintang has allowed me to participate in competitions, and it has played a big role in helping me develop my musical skills.”
The Ministry representatives expressed their pride upon seeing the students’ mastery of kolintang, which is not only well-preserved but also integrated into the school’s curriculum from elementary through high school. Joshua Wuwungan, an 11th-grade student and kolintang tenor player, added, “Kolintang is a unique instrument with a beautiful sound. It’s also the first instrument that helped me build the confidence to perform in front of an audience.” The students’ success is supported by their skilled teachers, Mr. Luddy Wullur and Mr. Sonny Runtu, who were also present, along with the school principal, watching with pride. With strong commitment from the school’s leadership, teachers, and students, MIS has fostered an environment that not only excels in academic education but also deeply values and preserves Indonesia’s cultural heritage, especially that of North Sulawesi.
