Ho Chi Minh City proposes free museum entry for students

Ho Chi Minh City's People's Committee has put forward a proposal to implement entry fees for museums and historical sites, with charges ranging from VND 20,000 to VND 60,000 per visit. However, a significant aspect of the proposal is the provision of free admission for children, students, and university students. This initiative aims to make cultural heritage more accessible to the younger generation.

The proposed fee structure includes a top tier of VND 60,000 per person for sites like the War Remnants Museum, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, and the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. Other sites such as the Bach Dinh historical site are slated for a VND 30,000 fee, while the Ho Chi Minh Museum Branch and Ton Duc Thang Museum would charge VND 20,000. Notably, the Ho Chi Minh Museum Branch and Ton Duc Thang Museum will waive fees for visitors paying respects to Ho Chi Minh and Ton Duc Thang.

Beyond students, other groups eligible for free entry include individuals with severe disabilities and those living in poor or near-poor households. Additionally, a 50% discount is proposed for cultural policy beneficiaries, the elderly, individuals with severe disabilities, those with contributions to the nation, ethnic minorities from disadvantaged areas, and recognized artisans.

The committee stated that current fees, in place for many years, are no longer suitable for the current economic climate. The adjustments are intended to generate additional resources for the preservation, restoration, and upgrading of historical sites and museums, as well as to enhance visitor services. The proposal is expected to be reviewed by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Council.