Cross-Cultural Understanding: Blankon and Keris
Feri Susanto
Head of Operations | Customer Experience, Customer Service, Operations | Ecomm, Logistics, Telco | Postgraduate: Marketing Management
It is vital to teach cross-cultural understanding to the younger generation, and it is equally important for their parents. This is particularly relevant in our diverse national context.
Here are some main reasons why cross-cultural understanding is essential:
1. Reducing Misunderstandings
??Cross-cultural understanding helps minimize misunderstandings that may arise from cultural differences. By understanding other cultures, we can better comprehend the context behind their behaviors and communication styles.
2. Enhancing Collaboration
??In today's globalized world, collaboration across regions and internationally is common. Understanding other cultures enables us to work more effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, thereby enhancing productivity and outcomes.
3. Building Better Relationships
??Cross-cultural understanding helps create better and stronger relationships. By respecting and understanding other cultures, we can foster more harmonious and appreciative interactions.
4. Broadening Perspectives
??Engaging with different cultures broadens our perspectives and makes us more open to various viewpoints. This helps us become more tolerant and empathetic.
5. Improving Adaptability
??In a constantly changing world, the ability to quickly adapt to new environments is crucial. Cross-cultural understanding makes us more flexible and capable of adjusting to diverse situations.
6. Increasing Emotional Intelligence
??Understanding and valuing cultural differences also enhances our emotional intelligence. We become more attuned to the feelings and perspectives of others, which is important in both personal and professional relationships.
7. Supporting Regional and International Cooperation
??In business, politics, and other fields, international cooperation is increasingly important. Cross-cultural understanding facilitates better negotiation and cooperation between regions, countries, and organizations.
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By understanding and appreciating cultural differences, we can create more inclusive, productive, and harmonious environments, both at work and in our daily lives.
In this short course, we touch upon blankon and keris as part of cross-cultural understanding of Java Tradition.
Javanese men wear blankon and keris for various reasons, including tradition, cultural symbolism, and practical functions.
Tradition and Cultural Identity
Blankon (traditional Javanese cap) and keris are integral parts of traditional Javanese attire that have existed since ancient times. Both serve as strong symbols of Javanese cultural identity.
Symbolism
- Blankon: Blankon symbolizes dignity and propriety in Javanese culture. Wearing it signifies respect for traditions and social norms.
- Keris: Keris is a traditional weapon with high symbolic value. Beyond being a weapon, keris holds deep philosophical meanings in Javanese life, such as bravery, honor, and justice.
Practical Functions
-Blankon: Besides being a cultural symbol, blankon also protects the head from sunlight and rain.
-Keris: Although rarely used as a weapon in modern life, keris is still maintained as part of Javanese traditional attire due to its historical, artistic, and cultural value.
The use of blankon and keris by Javanese men is not just a matter of fashion or style but also an expression of cultural heritage and the values esteemed in Javanese society.
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