Indonesia Revitalizes Majapahit Museum as Cultural Heritage Hub

RRI.CO.ID, Mojokerto - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture has officially begun the revitalization of the Majapahit Museum in Trowulan, Mojokerto, East Java, Sunday, 13 September, 2026 a region known for its important archaeological heritage. The project is intended to strengthen the preservation of Indonesia’s collective historical memory while developing a modern cultural ecosystem based on history and knowledge.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, said the revitalization of museums and cultural heritage sites is part of the government’s strategy to preserve important cultural and historical assets. He said the Majapahit Museum is a key priority in 2026 as Indonesia seeks to present the legacy of the Majapahit civilization in a more representative way.

The new museum will be developed on an area of approximately 10 hectares and will accommodate more than 88,000 valuable archaeological artifacts associated with the Majapahit heritage. “We always refer to Majapahit and its greatness, but we do not yet have a representative museum,” Fadli said, adding that the project follows President Prabowo Subianto’s direction to revitalize museums, palaces, and cultural heritage sites.

Fadli said the project also reflects a changing approach to museum management in Indonesia, with museums expected to become drivers of sustainable cultural economies rather than simply cost centers. “Museums should not only be showcases of civilization, but also sources of foreign exchange and income, as well as destinations for historical, educational, culinary, and even religious tourism,” he said.

The Ministry of Culture said the museum’s design was selected through a competition and incorporates environmentally friendly principles, including plans to use renewable energy such as solar panels. The facility will also feature immersive spaces, digital technology, and interactive historical recording areas designed to engage younger generations.

The museum will further apply an in-situ preservation approach if new archaeological structures are discovered during construction. Any such findings will be integrated directly into the museum’s collection and presentation, allowing visitors to experience archaeological heritage within its original context.

The project is expected to build on the ministry’s experience in revitalizing the Sriwijaya Dharmakirti Museum at the Muara Jambi National Cultural Heritage Area, which recorded a sharp increase in visitors following its reopening in July. Fadli said the experience demonstrated the potential for museums to contribute not only to education and heritage preservation, but also to local economic development.

Fadli expressed hope that the Majapahit Museum would eventually become “The Grand Museum of Majapahit,” serving as a vibrant cultural enclave and a living heritage site. The government is encouraging local communities, regional authorities, academics, archaeologists, cultural practitioners, and creative economy players to work together to ensure that the museum becomes an Indonesian cultural icon recognized by people around the world.