RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture received a Museum Rekor Indonesia (MURI) award through the SciArt 80: Gelora Api Kebangkitan exhibition at the Museum of National Awakening in Jakarta on Wednesday May 20, 2026. The exhibition features 80 portraits of Indonesian intellectual figures created by artist Paul Hendro.

Held to commemorate the 118th National Awakening Day, the exhibition serves as a tribute to Indonesia’s intellectual tradition and the contributions of scholars in shaping the nation. The Museum of National Awakening was chosen as the venue due to its historical connection to the birth of Indonesia’s nationalist movement during the STOVIA era.

Indoneisa's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, said the exhibition symbolizes appreciation for the country’s intellectual heritage. According to him, the role of scholars and scientists has been essential in Indonesia’s national development.

“The exhibition featuring the largest collection of intellectual figure paintings, presenting 80 figures through the works of Paul Hendro, symbolizes appreciation for the intellectual tradition and the contributions of scholars in building the nation,” Fadli Zon said during the opening ceremony. He also praised the artistic portrayal of Indonesia’s intellectual journey through visual art.

In addition to the paintings, the exhibition includes popular biographical narratives, reading corners, and popular science publications. Visitors can also take part in literacy and science education programs held throughout the exhibition period.

Head of Museums and Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, Esti Nurjadin, said the Museum of National Awakening is now adopting a more interactive exhibition concept. She explained that the museum aims to offer not only historical collections, but also engaging experiences for the public.

“The Museum of National Awakening does not only display exhibitions about medicine and medical discoveries, but also offers experiences such as Rebahan di STOVIA,” Esti said. The program is part of efforts to create a more reflective and immersive historical space for younger generations.

The SciArt 80: Gelora Api Kebangkitan exhibition is open to the public from May 20 to May 30, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the record for the largest exhibition of intellectual figures, the Ministry of Culture also received MURI awards for the oldest cave painting discovery and the highest number of newly designated national cultural heritage sites in Indonesia.