Six Artifacts Repatriated to Indonesia from US
Six Ancient Artifacts Return Home to Indonesia After Decades Abroad
Jakarta,Indonesia – In a ceremony marking a notable victory for cultural preservation,six artifacts of suspected cultural heritage (ODCB) were returned to Indonesia from the United States. Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono formally handed over the artifacts to Culture Minister Fadli Zon at the Pancasila Building in Jakarta on Friday, December 13, 2024.
The repatriated items, consisting of five bronze statues and a stone relief, were successfully recovered by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in New York, working in close collaboration with the District Attorney of New York (DANY).
“This event is an important milestone in Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to protect our cultural heritage and strengthen international cooperation,” minister Sugiono stated. He emphasized the Indonesian government’s unwavering commitment to bringing home artifacts scattered across the globe, highlighting the immense cultural value of these items, which far surpasses any monetary worth.
Minister Sugiono assured the public that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its representative offices abroad, will continue to actively pursue the repatriation of Indonesian artifacts.
Following the handover ceremony, the six artifacts were transported to the National Museum of Indonesia for further study and preservation.
“Today’s handover marks the beginning of a strong collaborative effort between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture,” said minister Fadli Zon. He underscored Indonesia’s dedication to reclaiming its cultural property rights and safeguarding its historical and cultural treasures for future generations.
This repatriation follows a series of triumphant efforts to bring back Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Last September, the Indonesian government received hundreds of artifacts from the Dutch government as part of an ongoing three-year repatriation project. These artifacts, including statues, sculptures, paintings, weapons, jewelry, and more, are currently on display at the National museum of Indonesia.
In a separate initiative, 15 skulls belonging to the Tanimbar Tribe from Maluku were recently returned to their community. This repatriation was spearheaded by Our Cultural Foundation, led by Menucha Latumaerissa, a Dutch citizen of Malukan descent.The skulls,taken by KNIL soldiers in 1912,were finally returned to their rightful place after over a century.
Ancient Artifacts Returned Home: A Conversation with Minister Sugiono
NewsDirectory3: Minister Sugiono, welcome. today marks a significant victory for Indonesia’s cultural heritage with the return of six ancient artifacts from the United States.Can you elaborate on the importance of this repatriation?
Minister Sugiono: This is an significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our cultural heritage. These artifacts,including bronze statues and a stone relief,are not merely objects; they are tangible pieces of our history and identity.
NewsDirectory3: Can you provide details about the collaborative efforts involved in securing the return of these artifacts?
Minister Sugiono: The recovery of these items was a accomplished result of close collaboration between the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in New York and the District Attorney of New York. It demonstrates the power of international cooperation in safeguarding cultural treasures.
NewsDirectory3: This repatriation follows several recent efforts to return Indonesian cultural property. Coudl you shed light on the goverment’s ongoing commitment to reclaiming these artifacts?
Minister Sugiono: The Indonesian government is unwavering in its commitment to bringing back artifacts scattered across the globe. We beleive these treasures belong in Indonesia and are actively pursuing their return through diplomatic channels and legal means.We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
NewsDirectory3: Where will the repatriated artifacts be displayed?
Minister Sugiono: Following the handover ceremony, the artifacts were transported to the National Museum of Indonesia for further study and preservation.We want to ensure these items are properly cared for and accessible to the public.
NewsDirectory3: Minister Sugiono, thank you for sharing your insights on this momentous occasion.
Minister Sugiono: survei. You are welcome. The return of these artifacts is a victory not just for Indonesia but also for the global community as we strive to protect and celebrate our shared cultural heritage.
