“We expect our national history to strengthen the nation's unity in diversity,” Zon said during a working meeting with Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR) at the Parliament Complex here on Wednesday.
The updated narrative will address gaps and incomplete information in the current official history, particularly covering events from the last 26 years since BJ Habibie’s presidency in 1998, as well as newly discovered legal facts and archaeological findings.
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“We will also highlight our international achievements, such as the Asian-African Conference and the Non-Aligned Movement,” the minister added, referring to Indonesia’s leadership roles on the global stage.
Zon explained that the revised narrative will be opened to public review, inviting input and suggestions from professionals, historians, and academics.
He also responded to criticism that the update might downplay reports of sexual violence during the May 1998 unrest.
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“Criticism is always part of any renewal effort,” Zon said. “But I ask everyone to wait until the new narrative is completed.”
He emphasized that the project is intended as a milestone ahead of Indonesia’s 80th independence anniversary.
“Our ministry has also re-established its directorate for history. We need history so that our children and grandchildren know their past,” he concluded.
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Translator: Fitra Ashari, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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