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