RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is pushing to revitalize one of its oldest Islamic royal complexes as part of broader efforts to preserve national heritage. Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, met Sultan Sepuh XV Luqman Zulkaedin to discuss restoration plans for Keraton Kasepuhan Cirebon.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of Culture office in Jakarta, Tuesday 3 March 2026. During the discussion, the Sultan outlined the current physical condition of the palace and expressed hopes for comprehensive revitalization.

Keraton Kasepuhan, founded around 600 years ago by Sunan Gunung Jati, is part of the historic Cirebon Sultanate. The sultanate, considered older than the palaces of Yogyakarta and Surakarta, remains a symbol of Indonesia’s long-standing Islamic heritage.

Covering approximately 25 hectares and enclosed by brick walls built by Prince Cakrabuana, the complex includes historic structures such as Siti Inggil and traditional gate architecture. However, the Sultan noted that several buildings now require special conservation measures.

Responding to the concerns, Minister Fadli Zon reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting revitalization efforts. “Keraton is the spearhead of cultural civilization, and revitalization is part of our broader effort to preserve national heritage,” he said.

The minister emphasized that restoration must be supported by strong internal readiness within the palace institution. He also called for accelerating revitalization by utilizing existing planning documents.

Sultan Luqman Zulkaedin expressed hope that government support would help sustain the palace, noting that it no longer holds political authority as in the past. “We hope that with repairs and revitalization of several buildings, tourist visits to the Cirebon palace will increase,” he said.

Officials said the revitalization aims not only to preserve physical structures but also to safeguard historical values, traditions, and local wisdom. With proper planning and collaboration, Keraton Kasepuhan is expected to strengthen its role as a cultural center, educational space, and living symbol of Cirebon’s identity in the modern era.