Indonesia and China Explore Cooperation in Traditional Medicine

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture is exploring cooperation with China State Construction International Holdings Limited to expand collaboration, including the development of a traditional medicine centre in Indonesia. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon believes the traditional medicine centre will not only serve as a health facility but also showcase cultural expression to the wider public. “We greatly welcome the idea of building a traditional medicine centre in Indonesia. As we know, one aspect of traditional medicine, namely jamu or Wellness Culture, is a cultural expression that has been inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage,” the Minister said in an official statement confirmed from Jakarta on Thursday. Fadli explained that construction cooperation between Indonesia and the PRC has significant potential that can be realised in the reconstruction of cultural and historical buildings. Chairman of China State Construction International Holdings Limited (CSCI), Gao Bo, stated that bilateral cooperation does not only focus on strengthening infrastructure but also on human resource development based on culture. “In addition to design, concept, and planning, a development must also understand the local cultural characteristics of the area,” he said. Fadli also affirmed the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to advancing the cultural ecosystem through infrastructure development and the sustainable revitalisation of historical heritage. This strategic meeting is expected to be an important momentum in strengthening diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the PRC, while also reinforcing the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage through a modern approach that can be passed on to future generations.