RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Borobudur Temple complex became the site of a profound spiritual and cultural milestone as the Ministry of Culture conducted the Ritual Ageng Boyongan Mbah Bhelet. The ceremony marked the official relocation of the famed Unfinished Buddha statue, revered by locals as Mbah Bhelet, from the Karmawibhangga Museum to its new home at Kenari Field.

The relocation is a move by the Ministry of Culture to enhance the preservation and accessibility of Indonesia’s world heritage sites. Previously housed in the Karmawibhangga Museum after being discovered beneath the temple's main stupa, the statue has now been moved to Kenari Field to make it more accessible to the public, tourists, and religious pilgrims.

“The relocation of this statue was consulted with artists, cultural experts, local figures, as well as bantes and monks. The hope is that placing this statue in Kenari Field can present a stronger cultural and spiritual value,” Minister Fadli said on Sunday, May 3, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The relocation process was marked by traditional rites, including a Wayang Ruwat performance led by Ki Dalang Darmo Widjoyo and prayers by local religious leaders. These ceremonies signify a spiritual journey aimed at seeking blessings and completing the cultural narrative of the site.

The Unfinished Buddha itself is a significant archaeological mystery. Its incomplete carvings have sparked various scientific and archaeological interpretations, reflecting the unique complexity of Indonesian civilization and the layers of history preserved at Borobudur.

The Ministry aims to have the new site fully prepared ahead of a major religious milestone, focusing on several key goals. To improve infrastructure, the team is working to complete the pedestal and ensure the final placement of the statue.

Regarding the timeline, officials are committed to ensuring all work is finished before the Tri Suci Waisak (Vesak) celebrations begin on May 31, 2026. Furthermore, the project emphasizes accessibility by opening the site to support enhanced cultural and religious tourism during this peak festival period.

Minister Fadli emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize cultural sites and museums across Indonesia. The Ministry is currently focused on accelerating the registration of national cultural heritage objects and strengthening the cultural industry as a foundation for sustainable development. ***