KBRN, Palembang: The Palembang City Administration through its Culture Agency, is taking concrete steps to elevate the status of several Japanese caves from Suspected Cultural Heritage Objects (ODCB) to Cultural Heritage Objects (OCB).

A team from the Culture Agency along with related parties, conducted direct surveys of various Japanese heritage cave locations on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

Caves are scattered across several areas of Palembang, including behind the KM 5 Market on Jl. AKBP H. Umar, Jakabaring, Lorong Sikam in Plaju, the Lebong Gajah area of Perumnas Sako, Jalan Joko, and behind Charitas Hospital.

Affan Prapanca, Head of the Palembang Culture Agency said that his office currently prioritizes areas based on survey results. "We will collect data, survey, and see firsthand the condition of these caves to determine the steps to preserve them. All will be treated the same as the Japanese Cave on AKBP H. Umar Street," said Affan as quoted by rri.co.id.

Field observations reveal a rather alarming state of the Japanese Cave situated behind the KM 5 Market. This cave, located on an approximately two-hectare site, has suffered partial damage, is overgrown with shrubs, and contains accumulated garbage.

Furthermore, there are concerning indications that portions of the land may have been illicitly transferred to certain residents.

Affan said that he had reported the findings to the Mayor of Palembang and was coordinating with the Sriwijaya Military Command to facilitate the city's official management of the asset. He expressed hope that these Japanese heritage caves could be utilized as an alternative cultural tourism destination in Palembang.

Vebri Alintani, Chairman of the Alliance of People Concerned about Cultural Heritage (AMPCB) and a participant in the survey criticized the neglect of these historical sites. He asserted that the caves were authentic evidence of the history of the Japanese occupation in Palembang and warranted preservation.

"If these caves are lost, how can we prove that Japan once colonized Palembang? This is not just a matter of history but a great opportunity for cultural tourism. It can even be an object of memory for descendants of Japanese soldiers who were once here," said Vebri.

Vebri also emphasized that the land on which the caves stand should be state-owned. However, the slow process of reclaiming post-independence assets has resulted in much of the land now being controlled by irresponsible parties.

“We have sent a letter to the Commander of the Sriwijaya II Regional Military Command and are now waiting for a management permit so that revitalization can begin immediately,” he added.

He underscored that the preservation of Japanese Caves is integral to the development of the nation's character. "Independence is not only about physical development, but also about building the nation's soul. History like this needs to be preserved to foster nationalism," he explained.

AMPCB plans to study the Japanese relic as a Defense Heritage, or cultural heritage with defense value. "We will prepare studies and recommendations. The government must act immediately because this site is already very endangered," he concluded. ***