Henk Ngantung's Independence-Themed Painting Will Be Exhibited, Here's Fadli Zon's Advice

JAKARTA - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon met with Geni Ngantung, daughter of the late Henk Ngantung, painter and Governor of Jakarta from 1964 to 1965. The meeting took place on Monday, August 4th at the Ministry of Culture Building, to discuss a painting exhibition themed around the struggle for independence.

The exhibition will be held on August 16th at the Museum for the Formulation of the Proclamation Text. One of the main works on display is the legendary painting "Memanah," which was purchased by Bung Karno in 1944. "This painting is a silent witness to the proclamation of August 17th, 1945. It not only immortalizes history, but brings it back to life," said Fadli.

Fadli also proposed that photographs by Alex and Frans Mendur—two photojournalists who documented the moments of the proclamation—be included in the exhibition. "They are two witnesses to history. They must be recognized and displayed side by side," he emphasized.

Furthermore, he encouraged the use of digital coloring technology to revive black-and-white photographs. He believes that color can make the current generation more deeply feel the atmosphere of the proclamation.

To enrich the narrative, Fadli emphasized the importance of including quotes from the memoirs of national figures. He said that authentic Indonesian perspectives should not be drowned out by external narratives.

Geni Ngantung welcomed the Ministry's support. "The family collection is ready for exhibition," he said.

Also present at the meeting were the Director General of Cultural and Tradition Protection, Restu Gunawan; the Minister of Culture's Expert Staff for Economic Affairs and Cultural Industry, Anindita Kusuma Listya; and the Executive Director of Museums and Cultural Heritage, Indira Esti Nurjadin.

Fadli hopes that museums will not simply be exhibition spaces, but places where the public can immerse themselves in the spirit of struggle. "Museums must be alive, like Henk Ngantung's paintings that speak without words," he concluded.