RRI.CO.ID, Depok - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture is accelerating the drafting of a Museum Bill aimed at strengthening the country’s museum ecosystem and cultural preservation efforts. The initiative was highlighted during a public discussion held at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Indonesia in Depok, Monday, 9 March 2026.

The discussion was attended by Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, who emphasized the importance of establishing comprehensive regulations governing museums in Indonesia. He noted that the country currently lacks a specific law that systematically regulates museum management and development.

“Indonesia needs clear regulations related to museums,” Fadli stated in his remarks. “As a country with megadiversity, we possess extraordinary artifacts, and museums are essentially places to showcase these valuable treasures.”

The minister also underlined the strategic role of museums as centers of information, education, and culture that reflect the civilization of a nation. According to him, museums should also contribute to strengthening the country’s culture-based economy.

Meanwhile, Director General of Cultural and Tradition Protection of the Ministry, Restu Gunawan, explained that studies on the draft Museum Bill have been underway since early 2026. He said the government has invited experts and stakeholders to provide input for the long-term development of Indonesia’s museum sector.

“The review of the draft Museum Bill has been conducted since the beginning of 2026,” Restu said. “We are inviting comprehensive input from various parties to design a major plan for Indonesia’s museum development over the next 20 to 30 years.”

Academic representatives also welcomed the collaboration between universities and policymakers in discussing the bill. Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences of the University of Indonesia, Untung Yuwono, said the proposed regulation would provide a strong scientific foundation for the long-term development of museums.

“RUU Permuseuman is about how this nation preserves its collective memory and cultural heritage,” Untung said. “Universities have a strategic role because academics, researchers, and students work daily with sources of knowledge about the past.”

The Ministry of Culture hopes the proposed legislation will strengthen Indonesia’s museum ecosystem and encourage innovation in museum management, including the development of digital museums. Through the bill, museums are expected to evolve into inclusive knowledge spaces that remain relevant for present and future generations.