RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, received South Nias Vice Regent, Yusuf Nache at the Ministry of Culture office in Jakarta on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, to discuss stronger cooperation in preserving cultural heritage sites in South Nias. The meeting underscored growing coordination between the central and regional governments to safeguard one of Indonesia’s richest traditional cultural landscapes.

During the meeting, Yusuf Nache, affirmed the need for central government support to maintain several important heritage sites. He said many traditional wooden structures require intensive maintenance and regular restoration.

One of the key sites discussed was Bawomataluo Traditional Village, a nationally protected cultural heritage area known for its iconic wooden houses and unique hilltop setting. The village is also famous for the stone-jumping tradition, locally known as hombo batu.

He also raised concerns about Hilisimaetano Cultural Heritage Site, which contains around 50 traditional houses. He said restoration work and zoning measures are needed to preserve the site’s authenticity.

Another priority is the Tundrumbaho Megalithic Site, which has been designated as a district-level cultural heritage area. Local authorities said structural strengthening is needed to ensure the site remains protected for future generations.

Yusuf expressed hope for technical assistance from the Ministry of Culture in preparing a nomination dossier for Bawomataluo to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “We hope for more concrete collaboration, both in restoration efforts and support toward UNESCO recognition,” he said.

Responding to the request, Fadli Zon praised the South Nias administration for its commitment to cultural preservation. “The Ministry of Culture supports regional heritage preservation efforts through collaboration with local governments and related stakeholders,” he said.

Fadli also mentioned that funding schemes such as Dana Indonesia Raya are available for regional cultural communities and initiatives. The ministry said the meeting is expected to become an initial step toward stronger cooperation in protecting, developing, and promoting South Nias cultural heritage.