Exploring Borobudur’s History and Philosophy Through Ethical AI

Visitors to Borobudur often take photographs without exploring the history and philosophy behind the monument. A new immersive program in Jakarta aims to change that through eight experiences built with ethical artificial intelligence.

“Purwacarita Borobudur: Jelajah Sejarah dalam Ruang dan Rasa,” presented by Galeri Indonesia Kaya, combines history, culture and technology to revisit the temple’s origins. The program uses visual projections and immersive theater to turn scenes from Borobudur’s stone reliefs into experiences visitors can watch, explore and feel directly.

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We want history not only to be studied, but also to be felt and explored in ways that are closer to today's generation.

The program introduces stories from the Karmawibhangga reliefs, which depict cause and effect, and from the Avadana reliefs, including the love and loyalty of Prince Sudhana and Princess Manohara. Visitors also meet two figures from the Sailendra dynasty, King Samaratungga and Princess Pramodhawardhani, whose stories are used to explore the vision behind Borobudur’s construction and inauguration.

Galeri Indonesia Kaya developed the project with Bening Digital Indonesia and Curaweda. Its narrative relies on research and validated historical facts. Program Director Renitasari Adrian said the goal was to make history something people could experience and explore in ways closer to younger generations. The program is free at Galeri Indonesia Kaya from September 1, 2026.

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For us, preserving culture is not only about safeguarding the heritage of the past, but also ensuring that the stories, values and identity within it remain alive and relevant for the next generation.