"If such action constitutes a violation of the law, it must be processed according to prevailing laws," BPHN Head Widodo Ekatjahjana stated in a statement here, Monday.
He deplored the demolition of the cultural heritage, blaming on the residents' lack of awareness and understanding of the protection of cultural heritage.
The home, locally known as Rumah Ema Idham, had been designated a cultural heritage through Padang Level II Region Head Decision No. 3 of 1998.
Ekatjahjana said that if no legal action was taken against the demolition, then it could set a bad precedent for the protection of cultural heritage sites designated by the government.
"Hence, the BPHN fully supported actions that will be taken by Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim," Ekatjahjana stated.
Makarim earlier said in a statement on Friday (February 17) that his side had coordinated with local authorities to seek the best solution for the demolition case.
He also said he was considering legal measures against relevant parties.
Ekatjahjana noted that increasing the residents' awareness and compliance regarding maintaining and preserving cultural heritage sites remains a challenge for the authority.
However, he also expressed optimism that relevant authorities, including the municipal authorities and law enforcers, would take measures to protect cultural heritage sites.
The cultural heritage hosted Indonesia's national founder and first president Soekarno for three months in 1942 when he was en route from Bengkulu for an overseas exile imposed by the Dutch colonial authority.
During his stay at the Padang house, Soekarno continued his struggle to rally support for nationalist causes against the colonial authority.
Related news: Ministry to act against demolition of Soekarno's home in Padang
Translator: M Zulfikar, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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