Of The 82,158 Ancient Scripts Spread In Indonesia, The National Library Said That Only 24 Percent Were Preserved

JAKARTA - Deputy for the Development of Biological Materials and Information Services for the National Library (Perpusnas) Mariana Ginting said that only 24 percent of the ancient Nusantara manuscript or around 19,726 has been preserved so far.

'Resisting ancient manuscripts is not an easy task. We know that from the grand design of preservation of the ancient archipelago, there are around 82,158 ancient manuscripts spread throughout Indonesia, and only about 24 percent or 19,726 have been preserved by the National Library," he said in a webinar on the results of the preservation of the Archipelago manuscript which was followed in Jakarta, Tuesday.

For this reason, he emphasized the importance of preserving ancient manuscripts in the regions, either through institutions or society so that these texts can be saved from destruction while maintaining the rich culture and civilization of the nation.

Even so, Mariana explained that the achievement of preserving the ancient archipelago manuscript from the National Library work plan had exceeded the target.

"The strategic plan from 2020-2024 we have exceeded the target, which is targeted at 22.75 percent, has now reached 28.38 percent," he said.

He also said that during 2024 the National Library had carried out the preservation of ancient manuscripts in 12 provinces in Indonesia.

"We are very proud of this contribution in saving ancient manuscripts that have invaluable historical, cultural and literacy values. The preservation reflects the commitment of the National Library as an institution responsible for the nation's literacy heritage," he said.

He also stated that the purpose of the exponent activity of the preservation of the ancient Nusantara manuscript was not only to publish the achievements that had been achieved, but also to provide inspiration and encouragement for institutions and stakeholders to actively participate in the preservation of ancient manuscripts.

The preservation of this manuscript is not just an attempt to protect documents, but an attempt to maintain the traces of the history, knowledge and civilization that make up our nation. The ancient manuscript is a reflection of local identity and wisdom that must be maintained from the threat of extinction," Mariana said.