Ministry of Housing and Ministry of Culture Study Revitalisation of Over 3,500 Traditional Houses
The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) and the Ministry of Culture are currently studying a revitalisation programme for over 3,500 traditional houses in Indonesia as part of an effort to preserve national culture.
Minister of PKP Maruarar Sirait stated that the revitalisation of traditional houses is being prepared through a new scheme outside of the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) programme. “A new scheme will be created outside of BSPS, namely revitalisation, so that we can preserve our nation’s culture,” Ara said following a meeting with Minister of Culture Fadli Zon at the Ministry of PKP office in Jakarta on Monday.
He noted that the programme is expected to maintain the existence of traditional houses spread from Sabang to Merauke. Ara mentioned that President Prabowo Subianto has also prioritised the preservation of culture and traditional houses as part of the national identity. “President Prabowo also places great importance on our nation’s culture and heritage, which we must preserve,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon stated that his ministry is documenting more than 3,500 traditional houses that require attention and rescue. “Based on our data, there are more than 3,500 traditional houses across Indonesia that may need attention and preservation,” Fadli said. He explained that these traditional houses possess different characteristics and philosophies in every region, necessitating a revitalisation approach that aligns with their respective cultural values.
He noted that Indonesia is a country with extremely high levels of cultural diversity, or mega-diversity. “Our traditional houses from Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote Island, are truly unique, specific, and possess extraordinary underlying values,” said Fadlam.
According to Ministry of Culture data, there are 3,053 indigenous communities spread across various regions of Indonesia. Of this number, 534 traditional villages have been revitalised, while 2,519 others have yet to undergo the process. Data shows that revitalisation efforts are spread across 33 provinces, with the highest numbers found in Aceh (151 villages), South Sulawesi (47 villages), Lampung (26 villages), and East Nusa Tenggara (21 villages).
Fadli stated that the revitalisation of traditional houses is expected to not only safeguard cultural heritage but also maintain the function of these houses as spaces for social and cultural community activities. He believes the collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of PKP could serve as the initial step in forming a national programme for traditional house revitalisation.
In addition to the revitalisation of traditional houses, the Ministry of PKP is also preparing the BSPS programme for 3,053 artists, cultural figures, and custodians of cultural sites, who are currently undergoing the verification process.