MAKASSAR - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon encourages the revitalization of the Rotterdam Fortress not to stop at building repairs. The historic area in Makassar will be strengthened as a center for education, history, and cultural activities that are easier for the public to access.
Fadli conveyed this when reviewing the Rotterdam Fort Cultural Heritage Area, South Sulawesi, Sunday, July 12. He saw firsthand the condition of a number of historic buildings and discussed steps to revitalize the area.
According to Fadli, all work must still maintain the authenticity, character, and historical value of the fort.
"Fort Rotterdam is one of the historic forts that is very important for the history of the nation. The revitalization aims to maintain its historical value while strengthening its function as an education center, cultural center, historical center, and space for various cultural art activities," said Fadli.
The revitalization is planned to include physical improvements, strengthening museums and libraries, adding education rooms, and using digital technology. This step is prepared so that historical information can be presented more interesting and easy to understand by visitors.
Fadli emphasized that revitalization would be based on a thorough study and the principles of preserving cultural heritage.
"This revitalization is not only to repair damaged buildings, but also to ensure that historical heritage remains sustainable for future generations," he said.
Fort Rotterdam originated from Ujung Pandang Fort which was built by the Gowa Kingdom in the 16th century. The fort was then reconstructed by the Dutch East Indies Government after the Bungaya Treaty in 1667 and renamed Fort Rotterdam.
The area is also closely related to Prince Diponegoro. The Java War figure was exiled in Makassar until his death in 1855.
Currently, Fort Rotterdam houses the La Galigo Museum, a showroom, library, as well as various preservation and cultural activities.
The review was also attended by the Governor of South Sulawesi Andi Sudirman Sulaiman, the Mayor of Makassar Munafri Arifuddin, the Director General of Cultural and Traditional Protection Restu Gunawan, and the regional government.
The revitalization of Fort Rotterdam is now directed not only to maintain the old building, but also to revive its function as a learning space and cultural activity for the community.
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