Saving Indonesia's History And Archaeology, The Reason Patiayam Site Needs To Be A Cultural Conservation

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon in an online discussion entitled Situs Patiayam Towards National Cultural Heritage' at the Denpasar Discussion Forum. (ANTARA/Denpasar 12 Discussion Forum)

JAKARTA - The Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, supports the acceleration of the determination of the Patiayam Site in Central Java as a national cultural heritage, because the Patiayam Site is considered to have important value in Indonesia's history and archeology.

"I was at the Pati Ayam Site around 2004 or 2005. At that time we explored the cave and location of the discovery of artifacts that were accommodated by the community. From a substance point of view, the Patiayam Site was actually very worthy of being a national cultural heritage. However, administrative and technical issues are still the main obstacle," said Minister of Education and Culture Fadli in an online discussion entitled Situs Patiayam Towards a National Cultural Heritage at the Denpasar Discussion Forum as quoted by Antara.

He highlighted the importance of completing procedures involving various levels of government, ranging from districts/cities, provinces, to nationals.

According to him, the Ministry of Culture is ready to provide support, including in the settlement of administrative and zoning aspects which are often obstacles.

"This site has similarities in findings with other sites such as Sangiran, Semedo, and South Sulawesi, which come from similar geological formations. The discovery of ancient animal fossils such as Stegodon, Bubalus, to Sondaicus strengthens the scientific value of Pati Ayam as an important part of Indonesian prehistoric," he said.

Furthermore, Fadli also highlighted the need for a balance between cultural conservation and community use.

He proposed a cross-sectoral approach to overcome various obstacles, including policies related to research and conservation.

As a strategic step, Fadli conveyed plans for a prehistoric national conference in October next year, which will invite experts from within and outside the country.

In addition, in December 2024, the Ministry of Culture will hold an exhibition at the National Museum to showcase the original Homo Erectic fossil, Stegodon, and other findings, in order to improve public education and cultural literacy.

He also proposed the formation of omnibus law in the field of culture to simplify regulations related to cultural conservation, including the protection of cultural heritage, museums, and music.

"We want to ensure that all cultural elements, including the Patiayam Site, can be preserved and utilized optimally to build the nation's character," said Fadli.