Why not a Sukarno-Hatta Museum?

Why not a Sukarno-Hatta Museum?

From Media Indonesia

I read a news report that Mrs. Tien Soeharto, head of Purna
Bhakti Pertiwi Foundation, conveyed a certificate of honor to
businessman Bob Hasan and his wife on July 10, 1995, for his
assistance in developing the Purna Bhakti Pertiwi museum at the
Indonesia Miniature Park.

As an Indonesian citizen I am proud of this museum where
people can see items concerning Soeharto's struggle for the
interest of the Indonesian people on display.

However, the services of Sukarno and Hatta are, in my opinion,
no less important. Unfortunately, even though we have been
independent for almost 50 years, there has been no museum that
can tell people about the struggle and merits of these two
leaders. I think it is time the House of Representatives and the
government considered this matter. If I may suggest, the Bogor
Palace (because of its historical significance) could be turned
into a temporary Sukarno-Hatta Museum, until we can build a
special building for the purpose.

I believe many collections belonging to these two figures are
still in the hands of some individuals in the community. And many
are kept by members of their families or friends, not to mention
those which are kept in the National Archives.

What has happened to Bung Karno's collection of about 2000
paintings? Are they still in good shape and are they in good
care? Recently an auction was conducted by Christie in Singapore
which included two of Bung Karno's collection. The paintings were
not auctioned upon protest of Guruh Sukarnoputra (Sukarno's
youngest son).

If only the museum could be established, the continuity of the
country's history could be bequeathed to the future generations.
And at the same time it could serve as a tourist attraction which
undoubtedly would attract both domestic and foreign tourists.

We learn that a great nation is a nation which can honor its
heroes. Other countries, too, have museums for their heroes and
national leaders who founded their countries.

SUHARSONO HADIKUSOMO

Jakarta