Minister of Culture Strengthens Commitment to Preserving Borobudur as a Living Heritage

The visit to the Mahayana Buddhist vihara aimed to strengthen unity while reaffirming the commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Vihara Mendut is located in the same area as Candi Mendut. In his speech, Fadli Zon stated that Vihara Mendut holds significant historical value. He noted that the place of worship is now 50 years old. “This vihara was built in 1976, and in 2026 it will be exactly 50 years old. I appreciate the role of Bhante Pannavaro, who from the beginning has been the leader of the congregation at this vihara, while witnessing its development and safeguarding its noble values,” said Fadli Zon in his statement on Sunday (3/5/2026). Additionally, Fadli Zon discussed with Bhante Pannavaro the values of Buddhist teachings and symbols at the sacred site, including the Chattra, which holds important meaning for Buddhists as a form of respect, protection, and the highest practice. “Every Buddhist religious site has a Chattra, crown, or umbrella. In the reliefs of Borobudur Temple, there are many of them. This aligns with our aspiration to make Borobudur a living heritage that must be realised, of course with the support of Buddhist organisations and the wider community,” he said. Furthermore, he emphasised that the commemoration of the Tri Suci Waisak is not only a major religious day but also has broad cultural significance for the Indonesian nation. “Vesak becomes a momentum to reflect again on the meaning of Dharma teachings as a guide to life towards wisdom and compassion, while strengthening tolerance, unity, and peace in a pluralistic society. This is not just a celebration for Buddhists, but also part of the cultural and civilisational journey of the nation,” he stated. During the visit, Fadli Zon was accompanied by several officials, including the Director of Borobudur Temple Tourism Park Febrina Intan, Director General of Cultural Protection and Traditions Restu Gunawan, Special Staff to the Minister for History and Cultural Heritage Protection Basuki Teguh Yuwono, Director of Faith in One God and Indigenous Peoples Sjamsul Hadi, Director of Cultural Heritage Agus Widiatmoko, Head of Museum and Cultural Heritage Indira Esti Nurjadin, and Head of the Central Java Cultural Preservation Agency Riris Purbasari. Through this activity, the Ministry of Culture reaffirms its commitment to the protection, development, utilisation, and nurturing of culture as an important part of managing living heritage that provides benefits to the wider community.