Bali denies commercialization of Melukat ritual for WWF delegates

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Bali Regional Secretary Dewa Made Indra claimed that the Melukat agenda, or the sacred water purification ritual ceremony, for delegates of the 10th World Water Forum (WWF) 2024 was not aimed at commercializing the holy places.

“There is no commercialization, the agenda is only an offer of activities, not yet an official agenda. If it is included (in the official agenda), it will be offered to delegates who wish to participate. I don’t think everyone will participate,” Indra said in a press release on Tuesday, April 23.

Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno’s plan to invite thousands of WWF delegates to experience the Melukat was met with protests from several local communities. They argued that the delegates should not be taken to holy sites as this would give the impression that holy sites are being commercialized.

One of the holy places that can be chosen is Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring, Gianyar.

“We will certainly consider it. Services to the public must remain open, but the destination must also be open to others,” said Indra.

As the name suggests, he explained that the World Water Forum is a forum for conversations about water. One of the activities offered is water purification.

For now, Bali’s provincial government is still exploring alternative locations for Melukat, taking into account site access and capacity of each location.

The 10th World Water Forum, which will take place in Bali from 18 to 25 May 2024, will have ‘Water for shared prosperity’ as its major theme. During the meeting, water issues will be discussed and discussed, and common solutions to water management problems will be found.

IRSYAN HASYIM (EMPLOYEE)

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