RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Culture is pushing for a comprehensive revitalization of the regional pavilions at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) or Bautiful Indonesia Miniature Park in Jakarta to ensure the park remains a premier showcase of Indonesia’s national heritage.

Speaking at the Pradana Nitya Budaya TMII Awards 2026 on Friday, May 1, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized that these pavilions are more than just architectural symbols, they represent the identity and quality of their respective provinces.

"These pavilions are regional showcases. People judge the quality of a region by how its pavilion is managed," the Minister said, as quotd by Antara.

The Minister highlighted that TMII, which recently celebrated its 51st anniversary, has the potential to be designated as a National Cultural Heritage site. With 18 museums and 38 provincial pavilions, the park is uniquely positioned to drive Indonesia’s cultural economy.

Minister Fadli Zon pointed to global examples like the Palace of Versailles in France to illustrate how well-managed cultural sites can become significant economic drivers. He noted that TMII already generates substantial revenue, proving that culture can serve as a robust industry and a tool for soft power diplomacy.

To maintain relevance, the Ministry is encouraging a re-introduction of TMII to younger generations by implementing several modern approaches. This strategy includes pop culture integration, which utilizes current trends and digital technology to make cultural education significantly more engaging for youth.

Furthermore, the Ministry is promoting active programming by encouraging regional pavilions to host regular calendars of events, such as dance performances, theater, and culinary showcases. Finally, there is a strong focus on creating interactive spaces that transform pavilions from static displays into vibrant, living hubs for creative expression.

"There needs to be a re-introduction, perhaps through pop culture so it remains relevant to today's young generation," Fadli Zon explained.

The 2026 TMII Awards recognized provinces that have shown exceptional dedication to maintaining their pavilions and promoting local identity. This year’s top honors for the best-managed pavilions were awarded to South Kalimantan, which took first place, followed by Bali and Central Java. ***