Minister Of Culture Fadli Zon Reviewing Ranggawarsita And Sunan Tembayat Tombs, Encourages The Preservation Of Javanese Spiritual Sites

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon made a pilgrimage to the graves of Ranggawarsita and Sunan Tembayat. (IST)

KLATEN - Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Fadli Zon, reviewed two important historical sites in Klaten, Central Java. Ranggawarsita Cemetery in Palar, Trucuk, and the Tomb of Ki Ageng Pandanaran or Sunan Tembayat in Paseban Village, Bayat, Thursday, July 31, 2025.

These two tombs are not just pilgrimage sites. Behind it, there are long traces of Javanese spiritual and cultural history. Situs like this must be treated, not only physically, but also cultural values," said Fadli on the sidelines of the review.

When visiting Ranggawarsita's Tomb, the Minister of Culture highlighted the condition of the main building which was starting to break down. "The roof of the tomb needs to be repaired immediately. If left unchecked, it risks damaging the main structure," he said.

Ranggawarsita's tomb is located in the middle of residential areas. The building is in the form of a joglo measuring 6.5 x 17 meters. Ranggawarsita, the great treasurer of Kasunanan Surakarta (1802 1873), is known for works such as Serat Kalatidha, Serat Hidayat Jati, and Serat Witaradya. Not a few pilgrims from outside the region came to remember him.

Meanwhile, the Ki Ageng Pandanaran Tomb Complex known as Sunan Tembayat is a spiritual site from the 15th century. He is the first spreader of Islam and the Regent of Semarang. Until now, this location has been busy being visited.

Menbud Fadli Zon emphasized the importance of sustainable preservation involving local communities. "We need to strengthen the synergy between the government, community leaders, and the cultural community so that a legacy like this remains alive," he said.

Participating in accompanying the Minister of Culture during the visit included the Special Staff of the Minister of Culture for History and Cultural Heritage Protection Basuki Teguh Yuwono, Head of Central Java Cultural Park Suratno, Head of the Ranggawarsita Museum Sugiharto, and other local cultural figures.

Fadli also appreciated residents who have been actively guarding the site with cultural activities. He said community involvement is the main key in maintaining the sustainability of spiritual historical sites like this.