Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia is exploring plans to convert state-owned heritage buildings into interactive cultural and educational spaces, including museums, as part of efforts to better utilize historic assets and promote national culture.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon said discussions are underway with sovereign wealth fund Danantara to repurpose cultural heritage sites owned by state enterprises.

In a statement released in Jakarta on Friday, Zon cited a historic building owned by state traffic insurer Jasa Raharja in the capital’s Old Town area as a potential project.

He said the site could be transformed into a museum dedicated to photography and film.

“We still lack proper film and photography museums, despite having many valuable collections. The main challenge is providing adequate space,” he said.

Zon described film as a strategic medium for cultural promotion, noting it integrates multiple forms of expression such as theater, dance, music, language and culinary arts.

He added that converting the Jasa Raharja building into a museum could attract visitors due to its strategic location while showcasing Indonesia’s creative strengths.

The ministry, he said, is committed to working with government agencies, state-owned enterprises, private firms and communities to preserve and promote culture.

Zon emphasized the need to transform underutilized heritage assets into productive public spaces.

He said collaboration with Danantara is key to ensuring these sites are managed effectively and deliver broader public benefits.

Jasa Raharja President Director Muhammad Awaluddin welcomed the proposal, saying historic assets should be preserved while also serving productive purposes.

“More than a company asset, this building is part of heritage that must be protected and utilized,” he said.

He added that the collaboration could help create a cultural space that benefits the public.

Awaluddin said the initiative could turn the site into an attractive destination offering educational and cultural experiences.

The project is expected to support tourism in Jakarta’s Old Town area.

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Translator: Fitra A, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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