Indonesia Accelerates Heritage Restoration to Boost Cultural Tourism

RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Indonesia is stepping up efforts to restore key cultural heritage sites as part of a broader push to foster cultural tourism. Based on a press release received by RRI Voice of Indonesia on Sunday, April 19, 2026, the initiative highlights restoration work at major historical complexes in Java.

Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, conducted a working visit to Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Friday, April 17, 2026. During the visit, he inspected the Sewu Temple complex and the Ratu Boko Palace site, emphasizing the urgency of accelerating restoration efforts.

Sewu Temple, dating back to the 8th century and recorded in the Manjusrigrha inscription of 792 AD, is one of Indonesia’s significant archaeological sites. The complex consists of a main temple, eight auxiliary temples, and 240 smaller shrines, reflecting its historical and cultural importance.

“Proactive strategies are needed to secure support from the central government, regional authorities, and the private sector to fund further restoration,” Fadli Zon said. He stressed that collaboration across sectors is essential to preserve the site effectively.

According to the minister, restoration is not only about preservation but also a strategic investment in cultural, historical, and religious tourism. He noted that these efforts are expected to generate economic benefits while restoring the site’s integrity in the coming years.

The minister also visited the Ratu Boko Palace, a national cultural heritage site covering approximately 16 hectares in Sleman, Yogyakarta. The site serves as both a historical landmark and a key tourism destination under the Ministry of Culture.

Fadli Zon highlighted the site’s unique features, including its architectural gates, bathing complexes, and pavilions, as well as its blend of Hindu-Buddhist elements. “We hope more people will visit Ratu Boko, where they can experience a journey back in time through extraordinary ancestral heritage,” he said.

The Ministry of Culture reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the preservation and utilization of cultural heritage as part of sustainable national development. The initiative underscores Indonesia’s strategy to position cultural assets as drivers of tourism and economic growth.