Samarinda – PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM) took part in the Socialization Event of the Yupa Inscription toward the UNESCO Memory of the World at Mulawarman University on Monday, September 8, 2025. The event was organized by the Cultural Heritage Preservation Center (Balai Pelestarian Kebudayaan/BPK) Region XIV of East and North Kalimantan. PHM’s participation was part of the company’s CSR initiatives through its CSR program Melestarikan Tingkilan Kutai, commonly known as Sanggar Melatiku.

During the event, Sanggar Melatiku performed traditional Kutai songs Pantun Kutai Lama and Benua Etam, blending the melodies of the gambus and drum beats with poetic verses sung in turns. These musical pieces depict the historical journey of the Kutai Kartanegara Kingdom in Tepian Batu Hulu Dusun.

Lestari, the Head of BPK Region XIV of East and North Kalimantan, expressed appreciation for PHM as the only energy company running a long-term and in-depth CSR program in cultural preservation. “This initiative is not only strategic but also profound and sustainable. I hope the synergy between the government, communities, and the private sector will further strengthen efforts to protect Kutai’s cultural heritage, especially the Yupa Inscriptions, which are a source of national pride,” she stated.

The Yupa consists of seven stone pillars inscribed with ancient writings, serving as authentic evidence and witnesses to the birth of noble thought that shaped the nation’s identity. Through the Yupa, we trace the use of script as early as the 4th century AD, learn about the royal lineage of Kutai, and discover a cultural bridge formed through maritime interactions with India. This is reflected in the use of Brahmi script, the ancestor of Pallava, and the ancient Hindu or Vedic traditions that took root during that time.

The nomination of the Yupa Inscriptions for UNESCO’s Memory of the World not only focuses on preserving cultural heritage but also opens opportunities for discussion, research, and sustainable utilization. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 4 on Quality Education and No. 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Secretary General of the Nusantara Cultural Council, Ir. Artha Mulya emphasized that Tingkilan music, Kutai’s traditional musical art, is a noble product of cultural exchange and an authentic expression of maritime people.

On the same occasion, the Expert Staff of the Ministry of Culture of Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Ismunandar, highlighted the historical significance of the Yupa Inscriptions. “This monument represents the first known written record in Indonesia and the oldest relic listed in the Memory of the World. It also proves the existence of one of the earliest states in the archipelago that actively engaged in global relations,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Dony Indrawan, Manager of Communication Relations & CID at PT Pertamina Hulu Indonesia (PHI), stated that PHM’s Cultural Preservation Program aligns with Pertamina’s sustainability policies and UNESCO’s vision to prevent the loss of cultural memory. “We work to document and preserve cultural heritage, encourage regeneration, build public appreciation, and create opportunities for cultural practitioners, all realized through continuous community empowerment,” he said.

He added that the company collaborates with various stakeholders, including NGOs, MSMEs, and universities, to design and implement CSR programs around its operational areas. “This initiative represents another dimension of CSR, focusing on the company’s contribution to economic growth, community empowerment, and environmental preservation while maintaining and celebrating local identity and culture,” Dony concluded.

PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM) is a subsidiary of PT Pertamina Hulu Indonesia (PHI) in Zona 8. It manages upstream oil and gas operations and businesses in accordance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in the Mahakam Working Area in East Kalimantan. As a Production Sharing Contract Contractor for the Indonesian government, represented by SKK Migas, PHM, along with its subsidiaries and affiliates, PHI also implements innovative Corporate Social Responsibility programs in the areas of Economics, Education, Health, Environment, Infrastructure, and Disaster Response to support sustainable community empowerment and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PHI is headquartered in Jakarta. For further information about PHM and PHI, please visit https://phi.pertamina.com.