"(The temple management) should involve the Besakih Village and Besakih Traditional Village, and give the community the opportunity to participate and contribute," Jokowi stated while inaugurating the sacred temple in Karangasem, Bali, on Monday.
The head of state reminded that a huge amount of budget had been channeled for revitalization of the Besakih Temple area.
Bali Governor I Wayan Koster revealed that the project had cost at least Rp911 billion (almost US$60 million), with Rp428 billion sourced from the state budget and Rp483 billion from Bali's regional budget.
"Building a great and magnificent facility is easier than maintaining it," the president stated.
The head of state was enthusiastic that the project for renovating the temple area could be completed, as he believes that the temple was not only considered sacred by Hindus in Bali but also those from all over Indonesia.
Hence, Jokowi emphasized that Besakih Temple and its surrounding area should be treated with utmost respect, so that Hindus and visitors can sense its aura of divinity.
"By maintaining sacredness, cleanliness, tidiness and beauty are maintained," he affirmed.
The revitalization project included the restoration and development of a sanctuary place, a parking lot that can accommodate up to 250 bus units, and a parking building, with a capacity to accommodate 1,541 cars and 1,268 motorcycles.
There are also 272 kiosks and 198 temporary stalls where micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can trade their products; 274 free toilet cubicles; free electric shuttles, as well as several supporting facilities, such as a Balinese pavilion (wantilan), audio-visual building, and creativity building.
At the inauguration, the president was accompanied by First Lady Iriana Jokowi, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Public Works and Housing Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, and Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung.
Related news: Need commitment to prevent desecration of Bali sacred sites: official
Related news: Great Besakih Temple complex in Bali being revitalized: ministry
Translator: Gilang G, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
