RRI>CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is stepping up efforts to safeguard its vast collection of ancient manuscripts as part of a broader cultural preservation strategy. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon met with representatives of Masyarakat Pernaskahan Nusantara (Manassa) to explore deeper collaboration.

The meeting, held in Jakarta, Tuesday 3 March 2026, focused on protecting, developing, and utilizing Nusantara manuscripts as a vital source of knowledge and heritage. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to preserving manuscripts as an integral part of Indonesia’s cultural advancement.

Manassa, founded in 1996 by philologist Prof. Ikah Halil, brings together academics, researchers, manuscript owners, and enthusiasts. The organization works to document, research, conserve, and promote Indonesia’s manuscript heritage in line with national cultural advancement laws.

During the discussion, Manassa proposed several strategic programs, including a competency certification scheme for manuscript specialists. The initiative aims to address the growing need for trained philologists and technical experts at the regional level.

Minister Fadli expressed support for programs that contribute to manuscript preservation, including potential funding through the government’s Dana Indonesiana scheme. He emphasized that strengthening professional standards would enhance local cultural preservation efforts.

The minister also underscored the importance of building a comprehensive digital database of manuscripts. According to him, digital access would facilitate research, literacy programs, and broader cultural knowledge development.

Fadli estimated that Indonesia holds around 150,000 manuscripts, many of which still require proper inventory and conservation. “A more systematic and sustainable rescue effort is needed through cooperation between government, academics, and society,” he said.

Participants also discussed opportunities for digital repatriation, as many Nusantara manuscripts are currently stored overseas. By strengthening collaboration and human resource capacity, the ministry and Manassa aim to ensure that Indonesia’s manuscript heritage remains preserved and accessible for future generations.