Indonesia, China Explore Cultural Heritage and Traditional Medicine Cooperation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and China are exploring new areas of cooperation in cultural development, including heritage revitalization and traditional medicine, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations beyond infrastructure projects.

Based on the release received by RRI Voi in Jakarta, Thursday, June 18, 2026, the initiative was discussed during a strategic dialogue between Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon and Gao Bo, Chairman of China State Construction International Holdings Limited (CSCI), at the Ministry of Culture office in Jakarta. The meeting followed earlier discussions involving Indonesia’s Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas).

Fadli said Indonesia and China have built a strong partnership in various sectors, ranging from transportation infrastructure to cultural development. He noted that both countries share a commitment to shaping a future that places culture at the center of sustainable development.

One of the proposals discussed during the meeting was the development of a traditional medicine center in Indonesia. According to the Minister, such a facility could serve not only as a healthcare center but also as a platform for promoting cultural heritage.

“We highly welcome the idea of establishing a traditional medicine center in Indonesia. As we know, traditional wellness culture, including jamu, represents a cultural expression that has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list,” Fadli said.

The minister also highlighted the potential for cooperation in the restoration and revitalization of historical and cultural sites across Indonesia. He said projects involving heritage buildings and historic districts could become a key component of future bilateral collaboration.

“Cooperation in the development and revitalization of historical buildings could become a major focus of this partnership. The revitalization of old towns in various regions of Indonesia is one area with significant potential that we can further explore with relevant stakeholders,” he said.

Gao Bo echoed the importance of integrating cultural values into development projects. He emphasized that successful construction initiatives should not only focus on design and planning but also take into account the cultural characteristics and local identity of the communities they serve.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing cultural ecosystems through infrastructure development, heritage preservation, and people-centered initiatives. Both sides expressed hope that the partnership would strengthen Indonesia–China relations while ensuring that cultural heritage remains relevant and accessible for future generations.