Visiting Borobudur, Minister of SOEs Ensures Cultural Heritage Sites Are Managed Based on Spirituality, Culture and Education
State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir visited the Borobudur area to ensure the progress of the transformation aimed at making this world heritage site a world-class spiritual, cultural and educational tourism destination.
Erick Thohir emphasized that after the management was given to Injourney through Presidential Decree Number 101 of 2024 concerning the Management of the Borobudur Temple Complex as an effort to organize and preserve Indonesian cultural heritage. He ensured sustainable development while empowering the economy of the surrounding community.
"Borobudur is a world heritage that we must manage with a clear vision and strong commitment. This development is not only for tourism, but also to create economic impacts for the community, especially MSMEs. We want to ensure that all parties benefit," said Erick Thohir
The Minister of SOEs also added, "This is part of our responsibility to preserve and optimize the potential of Borobudur for the future of Indonesia and future generations, and is committed to realizing this as a global destination that brings sustainable benefits," he added.
Erick Thohir also highlighted the direct impact of the development of the Borobudur area on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The increase in the number of visitors and the optimization of the Borobudur area provide encouragement for local business actors, especially those involved in the Borobudur Museum and Art Village, so that they can increase their income and strengthen their competitiveness in the creative economy sector.
"We are proud to see that local communities are directly feeling the economic impact of this project. The increase in income of MSMEs around the Borobudur area is a real result of our commitment to creating an inclusive economic ecosystem," added Erick Thohir.
In addition to the economic impact, the development of Borobudur also includes the transformation of museums in the area into more dynamic educational and cultural centers. The Borobudur Museum is now designed to showcase the values that shape Indonesian civilization.
"These museums should be seen as part of the great story of our nation. They are not just historical relics, but representations of the richness of Indonesian values and culture that need to be promoted to the world," added Erick Thohir in the midst of his visit this time.
The government also continues to strive to improve accessibility for international tourists by opening direct flight routes to Yogyakarta. This step is expected to increase the appeal of Borobudur as an international destination and encourage foreign tourists to more easily access the site.
"Indonesia has great tourism potential, and we must ensure that our infrastructure and accessibility are ready to compete with other countries," said Erick Thohir.
In terms of sustainability, the development of Zone 2, which includes a 60,89-hectare Heritage Park, emphasizes the preservation of the site and its ecosystem. Borobudur will feature various clusters, such as the Borobudur Spiritual Sanctuary (BSS) and the Flora & Nursery Park, which combine spiritual, educational, and cultural tourism.
"This development must always be in line with environmental preservation and the historical value of Borobudur, in accordance with UNESCO's recommendations to maintain the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of this site," concluded Erick.
