RRI.CO.ID, Padang Pariaman - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture Fadli Zon delivered humanitarian assistance to communities affected by a natural disaster in the cultural heritage area of Syekh Burhanuddin in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra Thursday, 13 March 2026. The visit marked the beginning of the minister’s working trip to the province while emphasizing the importance of protecting historical sites and supporting local communities.

The assistance was distributed at the Kuburan Sibohong Syekh Burhanuddin Surau Gadang complex, a site widely known as an important center for Islamic history in West Sumatra. Besides being a pilgrimage destination, the area also serves as a place for visitors to learn about the origins and spread of Islam in the Minangkabau region.

Fadli Zon expressed his condolences to residents affected by the disaster and encouraged communities to remain resilient through solidarity and mutual cooperation. “We express our deep condolences to the affected communities and must face this disaster with a spirit of cooperation,” he said.

He also warned about the increasing challenges posed by unpredictable climate conditions. According to him, greater vigilance and collective preparedness are needed to respond to disasters that may affect both communities and cultural heritage areas.

The minister emphasized that the Ministry of Culture has a responsibility to safeguard both tangible and intangible cultural heritage across Indonesia. He noted that the Syekh Burhanuddin burial complex holds significant historical value for the Minangkabau people and must be preserved for future generations.

During the visit, Fadli Zon symbolically handed over prayer equipment to representatives of several local communities and institutions. The aid was distributed to residents of Korong Rajang, Korong Baruah, Nagari Sandi Ulakan, and Nagari Sungai Batang, as well as to the administrators of Masjid Inyiak Deer and the Sintuk War Museum in Agam Regency.

Padang Pariaman Regent John Kennedy Aziz welcomed the support from the Ministry of Culture and highlighted the region’s cultural significance. “There are 98 officially designated cultural heritage sites and 15 elements of intangible cultural heritage in Padang Pariaman,” he said.

The government hopes that the assistance will support recovery efforts while ensuring the preservation of the cultural and spiritual functions of the historic site. “Minangkabau has demonstrated a strong cultural dialogue, and younger generations must help preserve it,” Fadli Zon said.