Indonesia Builds up Strategy to Repatriate Cultural Artifacts

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Culture is reinforcing its strategy to repatriate cultural artifacts through a structured, collaborative, and research-based approach. The initiative was discussed during a coordination meeting with the national repatriation team in Jakarta, Tuesday, 14 April 2026.

Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, affirmed that repatriation aims to return cultural objects acquired unlawfully, particularly during the colonial period. He called for a more proactive strategy supported by data and research.

“I have seen references in books that detail artifacts, including their locations and registration numbers. The repatriation team is expected to map museums abroad that hold Indonesian-related collections and conduct research through archives and catalogs,” Fadli Zon said.

The government also plans to distinguish between cultural objects obtained as gifts and those taken through exploitation. This approach is intended to maintain respectful historical relations while pursuing rightful claims.

Meanwhile, Director General for Cultural Diplomacy, Promotion, and Cooperation Endah T.D. Retnoastuti noted that Indonesia has engaged in intensive dialogue with partner countries. These discussions also serve as platforms for sharing experiences on handling repatriation issues.

Officials highlighted that progress varies across countries, reflecting different legal and policy frameworks. Engagements with countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom continue through diplomatic channels.

Cultural experts stressed the importance of strengthening provenance research to support repatriation claims. This includes collaboration with academic institutions and the collection of oral histories to reinforce historical evidence.

The Ministry of Culture reaffirmed its commitment to advancing repatriation through proactive, data-driven, and collaborative strategies. The effort aims not only to return cultural objects but also to restore historical narratives and strengthen Indonesia’s identity on the global stage.