"Ambon and Maluku are building civilization and improving welfare," he said during the Victoria Fort Festival in Ambon on Friday, according to a statement from the Maluku provincial government.
He noted that such efforts require collaboration not only from city and provincial governments but also from relevant ministries.
Bima emphasized the importance of turning historical landmarks such as Victoria Fort into valuable cultural and tourism assets.
"When we visit Manila or Singapore, we can see how old forts become valuable cultural and tourism assets. Not many cities in Indonesia have such rich cultural heritage, but Ambon is one of them," he said.
Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa reaffirmed the province's commitment to making culture the foundation of local identity and sustainable progress.
"I welcome this event, which recognizes culture as an identity and symbol of Maluku's sustainable progress," Lewerissa said.
He described the Victoria Fort Festival as a vital platform to strengthen cultural identity and promote development through heritage preservation.
"Victoria Fort, also known as Fortaleza Nossa Senhora da Annunciada, is a historic icon in Ambon that holds significant cultural value," he said, urging Maluku residents to uphold culture as their guiding identity.
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Translator: Winda, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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