RRI.CO.ID, Semarang - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, inaugurated the revitalization of Semarang Tawang Station in Semarang, Central Java, on Thursday, July 30, 2026. According to Indonesia's Presidential Secretariat, the inauguration marks the government's commitment to providing modern transportation infrastructure while preserving the nation's historical heritage and identity.

In his report, the President Director of the state-owned railway company Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), Bobby Rasyidin, explained that Semarang Tawang Station began operating in 1914 after being built in 1911 during the Dutch East Indies era. According to Bobby, the station has a long history, including being part of Indonesia's struggle for independence.

Bobby also stated that the station's revitalization and beautification were carried out under Prabowo's direction and were completed within 330 days. The first phase of revitalization included renovating the front facade and main hall, as well as restoring the west and east sides of the building to their original appearance, based on old photographs. Furthermore, the lights and various historic ornaments were restored to their original condition.

"In this way, we can continue to preserve this 112-year-old building and its historical traces," he said.

In his remarks, President Prabowo emphasized the significance of Semarang Tawang Station in the nation's history. He said that the station was used by the nation's first president, Soekarno, to travel to various localities in Java during the early days of its independence.

"History records that the first President of the Republic of Indonesia used this station to travel to other regions to carry out state duties at the beginning of independence. Therefore, protecting and preserving Tawang Station is not only about protecting and preserving a building, but also about preserving our identity, our memory, and our historical journey," the President said.

Prabowo also reminded that a great nation is one that values and preserves its history. He emphasized the importance of preserving all cultural heritage and historical buildings as an inseparable part of national identity.

"Therefore, it's also important for us to preserve everything we have, even if it's from ancient times. We must preserve all buildings dating back thousands of years, hundreds of years. They are part of our history, part of our identity," the President said.

The secretariat said the revitalization demonstrates that development is not only future-oriented but also grounded in respect for history. By preserving the nation's heritage, it said the government strives to ensure that the values of Indonesia's struggle and identity remain alive and are passed on to future generations.