RRI.CO.ID, Depok - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon advocated for the acceleration of the Draft National Museum Bill (RUU Permuseuman) during a public discussion at Universitas Indonesia (UI) on Monday, March 9, 2026, to codify the protection and promotion of Indonesia’s vast historical artifacts.

The Minister emphasized that as a nation of "megadiversity," Indonesia urgently requires a comprehensive, long-term regulatory framework specifically dedicated to museum ecosystems, a legal instrument that has been notably absent until now.

The discussion, held at the Faculty of Humanities, brought together academic experts and policymakers to ensure the bill addresses modern challenges, including digitalization and professional certification for curators.

Minister Fadli Zon characterized museums not merely as storage facilities, but as strategic centers for information, education, and cultural diplomacy. He argued that a strong legal basis would allow museums to function as "showcases of civilization" that can compete on the world stage.

“Indonesia needs to have clear regulations regarding museums. As a country with megadiversity, we have an extraordinary wealth of artifacts, and museums are basically the place to display our precious treasures,” Minister Fadli Zon said, as quoted by the ministry's official website.

He further noted that the bill aims to enhance presentation by improving exhibition layouts and historical narratives to better engage modern audiences through more immersive storytelling. The legislation also seeks to professionalize staff by establishing formal skill certifications for museum practitioners, ensuring that Indonesia’s curators and conservators meet international standards of care.

Additionally, the bill is designed to boost the cultural economy, encouraging museums to move beyond static displays and become active drivers of culture-based economic growth within their regions.

Director General of Cultural and Traditional Protection, Restu Gunawan, reported that the draft study for the bill has been underway since early 2026. The ministry is specifically looking toward a "grand plan" for the next 20 to 30 years, which heavily features the development of digital museums to increase accessibility for the younger generation.

Untung Yuwono, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at UI, welcomed the collaboration, noting that the bill is essentially about how the nation "nurtures its collective memory and cultural heritage." He emphasized that universities play a mechanical role in this process by providing the scientific and historical research that forms the backbone of museum content.

The Minister concluded by linking the urgency of the Museum Bill to Article 32, Paragraph (1)/1945 Constitution, which mandates the advancement of national culture. By providing a clear legal umbrella, the government hopes to transform museums into inclusive, innovative spaces that remain relevant to contemporary society while guarding the treasures of the past.

“I hope that museums can become cultural and civilization showcases of Indonesia so they can be part of advancing Indonesia's national culture in the midst of world civilization,” Minister Fadli Zon remarked. ***