Indonesian Palestinian Museum Becomes The Idea Of Strengthening Historical Relations Of Two Nations

JAKARTA - The idea of establishing the Palestinian Museum 'Indonesia is in the spotlight in the discussion between the Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon and the leading Muslim scholar from Palestine, Prof. Dr. Abdul Fattah El-'Awaisi.

The museum is planned as a history and cultural learning space that strengthens emotional relations and solidarity between Indonesians and Palestinians.

The meeting which took place in Jakarta also discussed the current conditions in Gaza as well as opportunities for cooperation in the fields of education, research and culture to support the struggle of the Palestinian people.

"One of the ideas we are developing is the establishment of the Indonesian Palestinian Museum, which is expected to become a center for historical and cultural learning between the two countries," he said as quoted in a press release by the ministry in Jakarta, Thursday.

"We are considering the best location for the museum, among others in the Istiqlal Mosque area," he added.

In addition to the plan to build a museum, Fadli Zon also highlighted the importance of research cooperation related to the history of relations between Indonesia and Palestine, from the early days of independence in 1945 to the momentum of the 1955 Asian Africa Conference which strengthened the solidarity of South countries.

Prof. Abdul Fattah expressed his appreciation for the moral and material support that the Indonesian government has given to the Palestinian people as well as efforts to preserve Baitul Maqdis. He considered that cross-border collaboration, including with Indonesia, was an important part of a long journey to build education and fair international relations.

"This international experience gives me broad views on the role of education and history in building peace and strengthening cooperation between nations," he said.

In addition, he also said that his institution is active in academic activities in Indonesia, including strengthening research programs, scientific collaboration, and cultural exchange with a number of institutions such as the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Education and Training Center UI.

"We are also developing a cooperation project between our institution and the relevant ministries, so that they can contribute to the vision of the Indonesian government in the field of education and international culture," he said.