Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s government is surveying cultural heritage sites and museums damaged by natural disasters across Sumatra since late November 2025, Culture Minister Fadli Zon said on Sunday, as authorities prepare a phased rehabilitation plan to protect national heritage.
The data collection is intended to form the basis for restoration measures and long-term safeguards for cultural assets affected by floods and landslides in several provinces on the island, the minister said.
“In the initial phase we recorded around 43 affected heritage sites and museums, but the number continues to rise and is now estimated at about 70 locations,” Fadli told reporters in Jakarta.
He said the damaged sites range from district- and provincial-level heritage assets to nationally designated landmarks, including mosques, churches, historic cemeteries and museums.
The Culture Ministry has allocated funds for early interventions such as debris removal, cleaning and minor repairs once the emergency response period ends, he added.
Beyond physical structures, the ministry is also focusing on the welfare of cultural workers and custodians responsible for safeguarding heritage sites who were affected by the disasters.
Fadli said the government has mobilized humanitarian assistance totaling about 1.5 billion rupiah ($96,000) to cover basic needs such as food and clothing for affected communities.
“Cultural heritage is not merely about buildings. It is part of a community’s identity and historical memory, which is why its recovery must be an integral part of post-disaster rehabilitation,” he said.
The minister stressed the need for rapid but measured assessments of heritage sites damaged by flooding and landslides to ensure recovery efforts are well targeted.
He said accurate assessments are crucial to coordinating restoration work among central and regional authorities, conservation experts and local communities.
Rehabilitation will be carried out in stages, with strict attention to conservation principles to preserve the historical value and authenticity of each site, he added.
The central government will work closely with regional administrations and local cultural groups throughout the recovery process, Fadli said.
He added that protecting heritage sites in disaster-prone areas has become a long-term priority for the ministry, including strengthening mitigation measures and preparedness to reduce future damage.
