Heritage buildings in the city

Heritage buildings in the city

I recently read an article in Kompas concerning an attempt to
remove the right of the National Archives Foundation to manage
the National Archives building on Jl. Gajah Mada. I would really
appreciate it if The Jakarta Post would cover this topic, which
could ultimately affect other heritage buildings.

As an Indonesian who grew up during Dutch colonial days, I
remember the many heritage buildings that used to line Jl. Gajah
Mada: Hotel Des Indes (which in my opinion was far lovelier than
the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore), the old Chinese Embassy,
the Harmonie Club, Candra Naya and many others. All are now gone,
except for Candra Naya, which is dwarfed by a modern structure
and is barely visible, and the lovely National Archives building.

The foundation has not only looked after this building and
its contents well but has also created a cool and tranquil garden
in the middle of a hot and bustling city. I am proud to take
foreign visitors to see this building, but why is there only one?
A large city and a large spirited nation should have many well
maintained heritage buildings that speak of our history.

Recently I saw Tamalia , the
director of the building, on Metro TV defending the building
with courage and passion and I share her emotion. I deeply hope
the government will allow the foundation to continue to manage
the building, for I believe it would continue to be well
maintained under its management. Rather than change something
that runs well, why not restore and maintain other heritage
buildings?

PETER SIE, Jakarta