Jakarta, May 24 -- Culture Minister Fadli Zon urged Indonesians to view keris as cultural heritage and works of art rather than associating the traditional dagger mainly with mysticism.

"When discussing keris, people often ask whether it contains a spirit. That is why literacy is very important," he said after opening the Nusantara Keris Exhibition at the TMII Pusaka Museum in Jakarta on Saturday.

He said public perceptions of keris have long been shaped by mystical narratives despite their strong historical, philosophical, artistic and cultural significance.

According to Fadli, broader understanding of keris should be promoted through education, literacy and digital outreach, especially among younger generations.

"We continue to stre...