Yogyakarta, April 27, 2024 – The Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA) proudly announces that Fort Vredeburg Museum, one of its priority museum units, has been undergoing a comprehensive transformation since its operational closure on March 4, 2024. This museum is not only recognized as a hub for exploring Indonesia’s independence movement but also as an iconic tourist destination in the heart of Yogyakarta.
The Acting Head of the Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA), Ahmad Mahendra, explained, “As part of our commitment to optimizing service standards and professional museum management, Fort Vredeburg Museum is undergoing several revitalization projects aimed at improving facilities and enhancing the visitor experience. By prioritizing the concept of museum reimagination, IHA is committed to transforming the traditional perception and function of museums, turning them into dynamic communal spaces that encourage interaction between visitors and the museum itself.”
IHA adopts a revolutionary approach, emphasizing the concept of reimagination to transform the traditional perception and function of museums & heritage sites. Through a strategy encompassing reprogramming, redesigning, and reinvigorating, this initiative not only prioritizes the role of museums in society but also enhances visitor engagement with cultural heritage through research, educational programs, and more interactive and immersive experiences.
The revitalization project of Museum Benteng Vredeburg includes repairing damages and maintaining the building, covering improvements to internal pathways and public facilities such as toilets, a prayer room (mushola), and overall environmental enhancements. To improve visitor navigation, signage upgrades are being implemented. Additionally, renovations are being carried out in Diorama Rooms 1, 2, 3, and 4. Further enhancements to the landscape and surrounding areas of the museum include the parking area, the entrance plaza on the west side, the ticketing area, the edupark area, the jagang fence area, the creation of Taman Patriot (Patriot Park), and improvements to the Bastion area.
The Head of the Museum Benteng Vredeburg Unit, M. Rosyid Ridlo, explained, “This museum transformation process is not only focused on physical improvements, but we are also striving to strengthen the museum’s role as a dynamic, inclusive, and engaging cultural hub. Our goal is to promote appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural diversity and raise awareness of the importance of historical preservation.”
Museum Benteng Vredeburg will also optimize its 46,574-square-meter area to function as a communal public space, catering to the public’s need for both education and recreation. Additionally, it will accommodate various public activities by establishing a coworking space, coffee shop, children’s area, and merchandise shop.
“The revitalization project is being maximized and is currently progressing as planned, with completion and reopening to the public scheduled for early June 2024. One of the new programs to be introduced when Museum Benteng Vredeburg resumes operations is the ‘Vredeburg Night Tour’ program, along with the installation of video mapping, sound lighting, and a water fountain in the museum area—set to be launched for the first time during the inauguration of IHA, which will take place at this museum next month,” added Rosyid Ridlo.
The revitalization process of Museum Benteng Vredeburg is carried out transparently, involving various relevant stakeholders and considering the needs and aspirations of the community. Museum Benteng Vredeburg is not merely a place to store 7,000 historical artifacts of the Indonesian nation, but also an institution that plays a crucial role in preserving history and national identity.
“By delving deeper into the meaning of this transformation, we hope to strengthen appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural diversity and raise awareness of the importance of historical preservation in maintaining national identity. We believe that through public participation, we can create a more inclusive and relevant museum for modern society,” remarked Ahmad Mahendra.
***
About Museum Benteng Vredeburg
Museum Benteng Vredeburg in Yogyakarta, as the oldest colonial heritage site in the city, offers more than just a historical tourism experience. Managed by the Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA), a public service agency overseeing museums and cultural heritage, the museum is committed to transforming public services by presenting a comprehensive historical narrative from the Diponegoro era to the New Order. It houses more than 7,000 historical artifacts, including household items, weaponry, and objects once used by Indonesia’s founding fathers, Ir. Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta. Strategically located near Jalan Malioboro and other major attractions in Yogyakarta, the museum serves not only as a center for studying the nation’s struggle but also as an iconic tourist destination.
As a community hub celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the archipelago, Museum Benteng Vredeburg strengthens its role as the city’s green lung, offering lush open spaces amid Yogyakarta’s bustling atmosphere. Visitors can admire the museum’s aesthetic colonial architecture, perfect for social media content, while engaging in a variety of public programs. With easy access and affordable entry fees, the museum not only provides deep historical insights but also serves as a platform for cultural activities and historical preservation, accommodating public needs and encouraging community participation in its development.
About Indonesian Heritage Agency
The Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA) is a public service agency for museums and cultural heritage under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. Currently, IHA is responsible for managing 18 museums and galleries, as well as 34 national cultural heritage sites across Indonesia. Established in 2022 and officially designated as a public service agency on September 1, 2023, IHA envisions itself as a collaborative institution that fosters creativity, social transformation, and the development of a culturally enriched society.
IHA prioritizes service enhancement with a strong emphasis on heritage protection. By embracing creativity and promoting an inclusive spirit of collaboration, IHA collectively contributes to fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage.
