Preserving Culture Through Postcards That Have Historical Traces

JAKARTA - Preservation of culture is an important effort in maintaining the historical heritage and identity of the nation. One aspect of culture that has high historical value is filatile objects, such as stamps and postcards, which not only function as a means of communication but also as documentation of a nation's journey.

Therefore, the preservation of postal objects is a strategic step in maintaining historical traces for future generations.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized the importance of maintaining and preserving postal objects as part of national history. One concrete step that has been taken is the publication of a book entitled "Pos Card from Buitenzorg" by the Ministry of Culture and the Center for the Philatelist Association.

"This effort is in line with the Ministry of Culture's vision of preserving cultural heritage and introducing it to future generations," said Fadli Zon as quoted by ANTARA.

He explained that postcards and filatel objects are part of a more valuable cultural heritage of material, especially in today's digital era where physical objects are increasingly rarely used in communication. Apart from being a historic collection, stamps and postcards also have a role in cultural diplomacy.

"These objects are not just communication tools, but are also an important medium in introducing history, natural wealth, arts, and Indonesian traditions to the international world. These post cards are sent to various countries and regions as part of cultural exchanges," he added.

The book "Buitenzorg Picture Post Card" written by Fadli Zon with Mahpudi presents an overview of Bogor City in the Dutch colonial era through a collection of postcards. In this 166-page book, there are 179 post cards featuring various city icons, such as the Bogor Palace and Botanical Gardens, as well as recording the social life of the community at that time.

This work has won a gold medal award at the 2025 National Filateli Exhibition (Panfila), as a form of appreciation for its contribution to preserving history through filateli.

"Through this book, we are invited to trace the historical traces of Bogor City in the 1890-1930 period. Not only capturing historical images, but also reflecting on the development of cities and communities from time to time," he concluded.