Indonesia Museum Launches Book Exploring Srivijaya’s Maritime Legacy

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The National Museum of Indonesia has launched BERANDA (Berbincang Ragam Budaya), its first interactive public program aimed at expanding public understanding of museum collections and historical narratives. The inaugural program also featured the official public launch of Herald van der Linde’s latest book, “SRIVIJAYA: Power, Trade, and Faith in Indonesia’s First Maritime Empire.”

Held at the theater of Building C at the National Museum of Indonesia in Jakarta on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The program provided a platform for public discussion on the history and legacy of the Srivijaya civilization. Head of the Museum and Cultural Heritage Agency, Indira Estiyanti Nurjadin, welcomed the author’s decision to hold the book launch at the museum and open the event to the public.

“This is the book launch because, according to Mr. Herald, previous events about the Srivijaya book were held on a limited basis. So, this is the first event officially opened to the general public," Indira said.

Van der Linde explained that the book was developed through a review of hundreds of literary works and historical sources. It examines Srivijaya’s history from the travel records of Buddhist monk I Tsing in 670 AD and the historical inscriptions recording Dapunta Hyang Sri Jayanasa to the civilization’s connections with the Sailendra Dynasty and the construction of Borobudur.

The book also explores Srivijaya’s historical links to the origins of Singapore and the wider maritime networks of Southeast Asia. One of the discussions focused on the Muara Jambi site in Sumatra as an important center of learning in its era, while ports across the Indonesian archipelago served as bridges connecting international trade and diplomatic networks.

The discussion highlighted the role of maritime connectivity in shaping the development of Srivijaya and its interaction with other societies. This perspective places the Indonesian archipelago within broader historical networks of trade, knowledge exchange, and diplomacy across Asia.

The event was attended by Indonesian Archaeologists Association Chairman Marsis Sutopo and Indonesian Heritage Society President Christine Kristiati. Indira said the book launch could help the National Museum continue bringing its collections to life while encouraging the public to understand the role of the Nusantara’s maritime history in shaping Indonesia’s national identity.

Through BERANDA and the book launch, the National Museum of Indonesia aims to make its historical narratives more relevant, contextual, and inclusive for the public. Support from the Ministry of Culture for the program also reflects efforts to promote Indonesia’s cultural heritage and strengthen public engagement with the country’s history.