Public Works Ministry Allocates Rp21 Billion to Restore Mangkunegaran Palace Core Zone
The Ministry of Public Works (PU) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the archipelago’s history. Through the Directorate General of Human Settlements, the government will soon renovate the core zone of the Mangkunegaran Palace complex in Surakarta, with a budget allocation of Rp21 billion in 2026. This strategic move is not merely a physical project, but an effort to safeguard the architectural masterpiece of the past so that it remains sturdy across the ages.
Acting Director General of Human Settlements, Chandra R.P. Situmorang, revealed that the restoration is a direct follow-up to Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo’s directive to collaborate with the Mangkunegaran estate. The main focus of the work covers an area of 22,000 square metres, which forms the heart of the palace.
“This core zone begins with the pendopo, pringgitan, dalem ageng, and the functional buildings surrounding them. However, it must be underscored that this is a heritage building. We cannot and will not significantly overhaul it. We are only carrying out a refresh, architectural repairs, and strengthening of the supporting structure,” said Chandra during an inspection of the Mangkunegaran Pendopo on Tuesday.
Given the Mangkunegaran Palace’s status as a high-level cultural heritage site, the work process is not being equated with conventional building projects. Chandra stressed that the Ministry of Public Works applies a high level of prudence at every stage of the restoration. Meticulous planning has been underway since last March. The planning and construction process will involve Cultural Heritage Experts (TACB) and intensive coordination with the Mangkunegaran Palace household department.
“We are being very careful in mapping out what can be touched and what cannot. We are prioritising the cultural heritage aspect so that the sustainability of the heritage and the authenticity of its cultural elements remain preserved. This is not just about building; it is about caring for history,” he asserted.
Based on the assessment results, the largest point of intervention will be focused on the Pendopo Ageng area. “The technical work in this area will target repairs to part of the roof structure, checking and repairing the ceiling, and optimising the performance of the building structure,” he said.
The restoration project for the core zone of Mangkunegaran is currently in the tender process. The Ministry of Public Works is targeting the contract signing with a specialist historical building service provider to take place in the second week of July 2026.