Officially To Be Renovated, Abdullah Kamil's Building Was Agreed To Be A Creative Hub For Art And Culture
JAKARTA Abdullah Kamil's building in Padang, which had been neglected for a long time, immediately transformed into a creative hub for artists and the cultural community. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon ensured the full commitment of the government in efforts to renovate the historic building.
In a meeting at the Ministry of Culture's office, Wednesday, July 9, Fadli emphasized that concrete steps had been planned with the Genta Budaya Foundation and representatives of Abdullah Kamil's family. "It is a shame if this building continues to be damaged. In the past, this place became the center of exhibitions, performances, and cultural discussions. Now is the time for us to revive it," said Minister ofbud Fadli in a written statement quoted on Thursday, July 10.
Abdullah Kamil's building stands on a grant area of 4,314 square meters. The architecture resembles Minangkabau's typical gadang house. This building was inaugurated by Tien Soeharto on May 7, 1992 and was once a symbol of cultural activity in West Sumatra.
The Minister of Culture emphasized the formation of a new organization as the first step before the physical renovation begins. We need solid management so that future management is more professional and independent. This building must be productive as well as beneficial for the community," he said.
The Secretary of the Genta Budaya Foundation, Edy Utama, agreed on the importance of formulating a new direction of management. "Renovation alone is not enough. We have to make sure this building is actively supporting arts and cultural activities," said Edy.
Sulaiman, a representative of Abdullah Kamil's family, also emphasized full support. For him, this building is not just a building. "This is Pak Abdullah Kamil's legacy for the people of Padang. We fully support the renovation and management," he said.
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Director of Facilities and Infrastructure Ferry Arlian and Special Staff of the Minister for Economics and Industry, Culture, Anindita Kusuma Listya, were also present at the meeting which took place in a straightforward and enthusiastic manner.
Minister Fadli hopes that the renovation of the Abdullah Kamil Building will not only restore the physical building, but also create an inclusive art space. "We want this building to be a creative hub. A meeting place for ideas, works, and new energy for the younger generation," he said.