Fadli: Installation of Chattra Does Not Change Anything About Borobudur Temple
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Culture Minister Fadli Zon has emphasised that the installation of the chattra at Borobudur Temple will not change anything about the world’s largest Buddhist temple.
“So the chattra we are installing does not change anything,” said Fadli during an impromptu interview in Jakarta on Wednesday.
According to him, the installation of the chattra is important for the Buddhist community and serves as a symbol and meaning as a living heritage or living cultural heritage.
To date, he said, the assessment related to the installation is ongoing, and his side is also following procedures. When asked about the installation, he targeted that the chattra installation would be carried out this year.
Fadli also acknowledged that his side has met with representatives from UNESCO regarding this chattra installation and ensured that this installation plan is a request from Buddhist community organisations.
“The installation of this chattra is also a demand from the Buddhist community from organisations such as Permabudhi (Indonesian Buddhist Community Union), Walubi, from several Buddhist organisations, and also from the Directorate General of Buddhist Community Guidance has long sent letters to me, so there is also a part that is a necessity for living heritage, and I think we support towards living heritage,” he concluded.
Previously, Culture Minister Fadli Zon conveyed that the plan to install the chattra at Borobudur Temple is still in the discussion and in-depth study stage.
“The installation will be carried out at the right time, taking into account community aspirations, especially from the Buddhist community,” he said.
He explained that it still has to go through several stages, including impact studies and feasibility tests, to ensure all procedures are met. In addition, this plan is also part of efforts to socialise and respond to aspirations from the Buddhist community that have been conveyed for a long time.
He hopes that this step can increase the attractiveness of the Borobudur area, both in terms of historical tourism and religious tourism. With the estimated number of Buddhists worldwide reaching 500 million to 600 million people, the potential for visits is considered very large. Even if just one per cent come, the number could reach five to six million tourists.
The government hopes that through this living heritage concept, Borobudur Temple not only becomes a world cultural heritage, but also a centre for living spiritual and cultural activities that continues to develop sustainably.