RRI.CO.ID, Samarinda – The Samarinda Museum in East Kalimantan is successfully redefining the traditional museum experience by integrating interactive digital technology to bridge the gap between historical heritage and the younger generation. By transforming static archives into immersive experiences, the institution aims to ensure that local history remains relevant in the digital age.

"We have introduced interactive media such as holograms and touchscreens to ensure that learning about history is not a monotonous experience for today’s generation," said a Cultural Administrator at the Samarinda Museum, Ainun Jariah, on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

This modern approach serves a vital educational role, connecting the public with their local cultural roots. The museum meticulously curates and maintains a diverse range of significant visual collections.

These archives include documentation of the city’s founding and the construction of its oldest place of worship, the Shirathall Mustaqiem Mosque. Visitors are also encouraged to explore local folklore, including the legend of the Mahakam Dolphin (Pesut Mahakam), which serves as a symbolic guardian of the river’s ecosystem.

The institution’s mission extends far beyond its gallery walls. "The effort to preserve ancestral heritage is not limited to the exhibition hall, as the museum also manages and maintains over a dozen cultural heritage sites," explained Ainun, as quoted by Antara.

She further noted that the maintenance and preservation of these artifacts and historical objects are handled directly by a specialized team of curators and conservators.

To maximize its cultural reach, the museum has embraced modern communication strategies by collaborating with content creators to produce regular educational material for social media platforms. Beyond digital engagement, the museum serves as a vibrant community hub.

"This public space frequently hosts various community engagement programs, ranging from art workshops to creative competitions for students," revealed Ainun.

The museum grounds are also utilized for local economic empowerment, hosting culinary exhibitions in partnership with regional Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). In the tourism sector, the management has established strategic partnerships with travel agencies to position the museum as a premier destination in East Kalimantan’s capital.

Furthermore, the museum remains open to contributions from the public, encouraging citizens to donate historical collections that hold significant links to East Kalimantan’s past. "Therefore, safeguarding historical heritage is a collective responsibility for all elements of the nation to ensure our cultural identity is not claimed by others," concluded Ainun. ***