RRI.CO.ID, Palembang - The Indonesian government is seeking to balance infrastructure development with the preservation of cultural heritage through plans to expand a military hospital near the historic Benteng Kuto Besak in Palembang. The initiative was discussed during a coordination meeting between the Ministry of Culture and the Regional Military Command II/Sriwijaya in Jakarta, Wednesday, June 4, 2026.

The meeting resulted in a number of strategic agreements aimed at supporting the expansion of healthcare facilities while ensuring the protection of one of South Sumatra’s most important historical landmarks. Benteng Kuto Besak has been officially designated as a cultural heritage site since 2004.

The hospital expansion plan had drawn attention from cultural observers and local communities concerned about the potential impact on the historic fort. As a result, government officials and stakeholders held discussions to ensure that development activities comply with cultural heritage protection regulations.

Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, stated that the proposed hospital development does not violate cultural heritage regulations because the project is located outside the protected boundaries of the fort. However, he affirmed that all parties must remain committed to safeguarding the site's historical integrity.

“The Ministry of Culture’s interest, particularly in implementing the Cultural Advancement Law, is the protection of culture and traditions. We hope to safeguard these cultural assets, especially those linked to historical heritage,” Fadli said.

The minister also stressed the importance of cooperation among the military, local governments, and cultural communities to achieve a mutually beneficial solution. According to him, healthcare development and heritage preservation should move forward together for the benefit of the wider public.

Meanwhile, Commander of Regional Military Command II/Sriwijaya Major General Ujang Darwis, said the project aims to improve healthcare services for military personnel, their families, and the general public in Palembang. He explained that construction is planned on the site of a former clinic located outside the fort’s walls, ensuring that the cultural heritage structure remains untouched.

“Kodam II/Sriwijaya has undertaken and will continue a series of outreach and dialogue efforts to bridge differing views among stakeholders who previously expressed concerns. We are committed to ensuring that the development will not damage historical heritage and will instead create opportunities for cultural experts to play a more active role in the future,” Ujang said.

As a follow-up, all parties agreed to pursue national heritage status for Benteng Kuto Besak, complete a heritage impact assessment, and expand public access to the fort as a professionally managed cultural and historical destination.