Jakarta, Sept. 11 -- The Indonesian government has officially designated September 27, the birth date of the country's comedy legend Bing Slamet, as National Comedy Day, to honor the contributions of comedians to the national entertainment industry.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon announced the declaration by issuing a ministerial decree during the 5th Indonesian Comedy Awards (ANUKOM), co-organized by the Indonesian Comedians Association (PaSKI) and private TV station RCTI in Jakarta.

In a statement cited Thursday, the minister expressed appreciation to Indonesian comedians for their achievements and contributions to the national entertainment industry.

He explained that the designation of National Comedy Day had long been advocated by PaS...