RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is accelerating the restoration of the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Compound through a partnership with India, while introducing artificial intelligence (AI) to help preserve one of the country's most important cultural heritage sites. The initiative is expected to strengthen heritage conservation and boost cultural tourism ahead of Indonesia's Golden 2045 vision.

The plan was announced by Minister of Culture Fadli Zon during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday July 23, 2026. He said President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the government to expedite the restoration process, with the ambitious goal of completing as much of the work as possible before 2029.

Under the cooperation, India will assist in restoring part of the northeastern section of Prambanan's perwara (ancillary temples). Of the site's 224 perwara temples, 218 are scheduled for restoration, with Indonesia carrying out most of the work while India contributes to approximately one-quarter of the project.

"President Prabowo has asked us to complete the restoration before 2029 if possible. It is a task comparable to the legendary story of Bandung Bondowoso," Fadli said. He added that AI-powered scanning and digital mapping technologies will be used to identify and position temple stones more accurately, complementing conventional restoration methods.

According to Fadli, restoring a single perwara temple currently takes between one and two years using traditional techniques. By integrating advanced technology into the conservation process, the government hopes to significantly accelerate restoration while maintaining international conservation standards.

Beyond Prambanan, the Ministry of Culture is also preparing to revitalize Sewu Temple, complete restoration work at Plaosan Temple, and conserve a number of museums, palaces, and other cultural heritage sites across Indonesia. The program forms part of a broader national effort to safeguard the country's historical and cultural assets.

Fadli said the revitalization projects are expected to increase both cultural and religious tourism. He expressed optimism that closer cooperation with India, combined with improved direct air connectivity to Yogyakarta, would encourage more Indian visitors to travel to Prambanan.

"We are confident that once the restoration is completed, visitor numbers will increase significantly. We hope to welcome more travelers not only from India, but also from ASEAN countries, the rest of Asia, and Europe, generating greater economic benefits for local communities," he said.