Borobudur Temple 'Chatra' Installation Awaits Comprehensive Study

Magelang (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Religious Affairs has affirmed that the process of installing the catra on the main stupa of Borobudur Temple is still awaiting the completion of a comprehensive study, a step taken as part of the government’s commitment to prioritising the preservation of cultural heritage in accordance with prevailing regulations.

Supriyadi, Director General for Buddhist Community Guidance at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, said in Magelang on Friday that the government continues to undertake various efforts guided by regulation and preservation principles. The necessary studies have been carried out and are now entering the refinement stage.

“We at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, together with the Ministry of Culture, always take steps that comply with the prevailing provisions. Preservation is the top priority. The required studies have been conducted properly, and we are now only refining the results. Hopefully the process will be completed soon so the findings can be published to the public,” he said.

He stated that any published findings must be based on credible and accountable sources. This is considered important so that information conveyed to the public has a solid scientific basis, rather than relying on unverified references.

In addition, he said the government continues to promote cultural diplomacy, including maintaining good communication with UNESCO. It is hoped that this communication will proceed smoothly so that the placement of the catra on the main stupa of Borobudur Temple, in the interest of the Buddhist community, can be realised in accordance with applicable procedures and provisions.

Nevertheless, he said, the government has emphasised that the process cannot be rushed. The thorough completion of the study remains the primary requirement so that every decision taken continues to prioritise the principle of preserving cultural heritage.

“The installation of the catra still has to wait, as the study process is not yet fully complete. Therefore, the study must genuinely take precedence so that preservation remains the top priority in every step taken,” he said.