Peran Museum Topeng Cirebon dalam Pelestarian Budaya Lokal di Kota Cirebon

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of the Cirebon Mask Museum in preserving local culture in Cirebon City. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The informants consisted of museum curators, museum managers, and representatives from the Department of Culture and Tourism of Cirebon City. The results show that the Cirebon Mask Museum plays an important role as a cultural preservation institution through its functions of protection, conservation, education, documentation, and cultural communication to the public. The museum not only serves as a place to store mask collections but also acts as a social space that maintains the continuity of the values, symbols, history, and cultural identity of Cirebon masks. This role is implemented through collection management, presentation of cultural information, cultural education programs, workshops, collaboration with art communities, and the introduction of the mask cultural ecosystem to younger generations. In addition, the museum also functions as a medium for strengthening the collective memory of society regarding local culture. Although it still faces challenges such as limited conservation facilities and the impact of cultural globalization, the Cirebon Mask Museum remains a strategic institution in maintaining the sustainability of local culture amid social changes in modern society.