Prabowo, PM Modi Launch Prambanan Temple Restoration Partnership

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have officially launched a bilateral partnership dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the Prambanan Temple. This collaboration marks a significant step in cultural cooperation between the two nations. The agreement was formalized during the leaders' visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Yogyakarta on Wednesday, July 8, as part of Modi's state visit to Indonesia. President Prabowo emphasized the role of culture in strengthening bilateral ties, stating, "Culture is a bridge that can unite nations, strengthen mutual understanding, and build trust to face the future together." He welcomed the joint conservation initiative, highlighting its importance for the Prambanan Temple complex. This restoration project is a follow-up to the 2025 Indonesia–India Joint Statement, where both countries committed to preserving the historic temple complex. The Indian government, in collaboration with Indonesia's Ministry of Culture, the Indonesian Heritage Agency, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has been preparing the project. The ASI, recognized internationally for its expertise in restoring ancient monuments like Angkor Wat, has already completed an on-site assessment and project report for Prambanan. Culture Minister Fadli Zon stated that the partnership will concentrate on restoring the perwara temples, which are the smaller structures surrounding Prambanan's three main shrines. India's interest stems from Prambanan being one of the world's largest Hindu temple complexes. The initiative is expected to enhance Yogyakarta's allure as a cultural tourism destination, attracting more international visitors, particularly from India, and supporting Indonesia's heritage-based tourism development.

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Culture is a bridge that can unite nations, strengthen mutual understanding, and build trust to face the future together.