RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - To celebrate its 248th anniversary, the National Museum of Indonesia in Jakarta has launched a fresh approach to storytelling with the introduction of Kids Labels in its newly opened numismatic and lighting exhibitions. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to transform the museum into a family-friendly space, specifically targeting children aged 5 to 12 who make up the majority of weekend visitors.

The Kids Label concept moves beyond simply simplifying text, it is designed to trigger curiosity and dialogue between children and their parents. A specialist in Kids and Family at the museum, Sabila Duhita Drijono, explained during a media gathering on Friday, April 24, 2026, that these labels use provocative questions to make history feel more relatable.

“This label doesn't just explain but invites children to think and discuss. The hope is that a visit to the museum becomes a living experience, not just looking at objects,” Sabila remarked, as quoted by Antara.

In the numismatic (currency) gallery, for instance, a label might ask a child to imagine the value of one rupiah during the early days of independence, contrasting its historical power with its limited use in today’s economy. This approach introduces complex concepts like inflation and social history through visual exploration, encouraging children to find depictions of flora, fauna, and daily activities hidden within old banknotes.

The 248th-anniversary festivities feature two distinct exhibitions that offer unique insights into Indonesia's past. The first, titled Pendar: Kilas Terang Meretas Bayang or Glow: Bright Glimpses Breaking the Shadows, showcases a collection of lamps dating back to the 9th century while highlighting the evolution of lighting technology and its deep connection to social status, religious practices, and metallurgy.

The second, the Numismatic Exhibition traces the comprehensive history of currency in Indonesia, spanning from the Hindu-Buddhist era and Islamic Sultanates through to the colonial periods and the era of independence. This display includes several rare artifacts as highlights, such as the gobog wayang, halved Syailendra gold coins, and Arabic-inscribed kasha coins from Banten.

Head of Museums and Cultural Heritage, Esti Nurjadin, emphasized that these exhibitions are part of an effort to present the museum's collection as a "living narrative." By using modern curatorial techniques and interactive elements like Kids Labels and upcoming worksheets, the museum aims to remain a relevant medium for understanding national identity.

The Museum Nasional Indonesia is open Tuesday through Thursday from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m, with extended hours until 8.00 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays. The exhibitions are located on the 2nd floor of Building A. To ensure a comfortable experience, entry to the exhibition rooms is limited to 30 people per 30-minute session and is included with a regular admission ticket. ***