InJourney Supports Prambanan Temple Conservation, Aims for World-Class Tourism

PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (Persero), known as InJourney, has welcomed the collaboration between the Indonesian and Indian governments on a conservation and restoration programme for Prambanan Temple. The synergy is seen as a significant milestone in strengthening cultural diplomacy and preserving world heritage. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that Prambanan Temple showcases the shared cultural heritage between India and Indonesia. “This cultural heritage reminds us of the fragrance of the cultural heritage we have in India. And it is this cultural heritage that unites our two nations. For more than 1,200 years, the people of this country have preserved this cultural heritage with commitment, perseverance, and dedication,” Modi said during his visit to Prambanan Temple with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The visit marks a historic milestone in Indonesia-India relations and a commitment by both countries to care for world cultural heritage through a long-term conservation programme. The conservation involves restoring 224 perwara, or ancillary temples, within the Prambanan Temple complex. The work will employ a scientific approach, including archaeological research, digital documentation, artificial intelligence-based reconstruction, and knowledge exchange and capacity building between the two nations. As the parent entity of Prambanan Temple’s management, InJourney Destination Management views this collaboration as aligned with the company’s mission to develop world-class destinations through cultural preservation, strengthened international collaboration, and the creation of sustainable economic and social benefits. InJourney President Director Maya Watono said the collaboration demonstrates how cultural heritage can be an effective medium for strengthening international relations while creating broader benefits for Indonesia’s tourism sector. “This momentum is part of efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s nation branding as a world-class cultural destination capable of managing cultural heritage sustainably through international partnerships. We are optimistic and welcome this collaboration, which will enhance Indonesia’s appeal, particularly in the Indian market with its 1.4 billion population, while encouraging quality inbound tourism growth. Ultimately, cultural heritage preservation must deliver tangible benefits to the community through job creation, the growth of MSMEs and the creative economy, and improved welfare for communities around the destination,” Maya explained. Meanwhile, the Head of the Museum and Cultural Heritage (MCB), Esti Nurjadin, emphasised that the conservation collaboration will uphold the values that make Prambanan a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “All work will prioritise authenticity, integrity, and a scientific approach. Moreover, the success of this cooperation is not only measured by the number of perwara conserved but also by the increased capacity of Indonesian conservators, the development of science-based conservation practices, and the preservation of Prambanan’s world heritage values,” said the asset owner of the Prambanan Temple Complex. InJourney Destination Management President Director Febrina Intan added that since being designated a centre of worship for Indonesian and global Hindus in 2022, the area is no longer viewed merely as a tourist attraction or archaeological site. Prambanan Temple has now become a space for cultural diplomacy, spirituality, education, and international cooperation that brings together various countries in the spirit of world heritage preservation. She noted that India is a potential market for Indonesian tourism. Data on foreign tourist visits to the Prambanan Temple area shows that Indian tourists average nearly 4,000 visits per year, indicating significant growth opportunities through enhanced promotion and bilateral cooperation. “The momentum of the Indian Prime Minister’s visit is expected to catalyse increased interest among Indian tourists to visit Indonesia, particularly Prambanan Temple. We hope the acceleration of the Prambanan area’s restoration will further strengthen the destination’s global appeal, especially for Indian tourists who have historical and cultural ties to this area,” she said. As one of the national tourism icons, Prambanan Temple attracts around 2.4 million domestic and international visits annually, making it one of the most popular heritage destinations in Indonesia. Through this collaboration, the aim is to promote quality tourism, extend tourists’ length of stay, and broaden cooperation in tourism, culture, and the creative economy.