“Gedung Agung is not just a historical site—it is a living public space. We can utilize it as a stage for cultural diplomacy, art exhibitions, creative residencies, or an intergenerational educational lab,” Irene noted in a press statement received on Monday.
The deputy minister described the visit as a concrete step toward activating public spaces rooted in local values and cultural heritage to support a more inclusive creative economy ecosystem.
Irene also held discussions with the palace management on ways to activate the space in ways that are not only symbolic but also functional in strengthening the narrative of Indonesian culture. As one of the country’s seven presidential palaces and a designated national heritage site, Gedung Agung holds an important place in Indonesia’s history.
Accompanied by Head of the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace Deni Mulyana, Irene explored potential future collaborations, including artist-in-residence programs, museum-based educational content, and boosting cultural diplomacy through creative works rooted in local values.
President’s Special Staff for Creative Economy, Yovie Widianto, who was also present at the visit, shared his perspective.
“We can breathe new life into historical spaces through creative approaches that resonate with the times. By blending art, music, and technology, places like Gedung Agung can become not just monuments of the past but symbols of inspiration across generations,” Yovie remarked.
During the visit, Deputy Minister Irene and her delegation toured the palace museum; viewed original artworks by Indonesian masters, such as Affandi, Soedjojono, and Basuki Abdullah; and examined historical presidential photographs.
Built in 1824, Gedung Agung served as the residence of President Soekarno when Yogyakarta was the temporary capital from 1946 to 1949. The palace has hosted more than 65 heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.
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Translator: Fitra, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Arie Novarina
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