Public education vital part of Muarajambi cultural site revitalization

Jambi (ANTARA) - Public education and empowerment will be an integral part of the revitalization of the Muarajambi National Cultural Site as they can offer multiple benefits, such as cultural preservation and economic development, Jambi Governor Al Haris said.

During the groundbreaking for the museum at the cultural site in Muaro Jambi district, Jambi province, on Wednesday, he noted that the Buddhist temple complex has its own unique history and culture. However, he added, they would be in vain without good management.

"First, we revitalize the temple, highlight its history. And then we appeal people to learn about this temple, what's the history like, the values it has," he informed.

According to the governor, the aim of tourism is to improve the economy of locals. Hence, many stakeholders have been involved in the effort, such as the Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Ministry, which is revitalizing the structure, including by building a museum and a center for MSMEs, he said.

His administration will also train MSMEs to tap into the economic potential of local assets, like cuisine and batik.

Such efforts could help build some sort of emotional bond between the people and the temple, which, in turn, could motivate them to preserve their cultural heritage, he explained.

A House of Representative member from Jambi (National Mandate Party), A. Bakri HM, said that he will pursue a better budgeting plan for the Muarajambi National Cultural Site so that it can be developed better.

This is because the cultural site is no longer of importance to Jambi alone, but the whole world, he added.

"We expect the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry to also push for more budget, as much as possible, here. Today, we see that Culture Ministry has poured hundreds of trillions of budget," he added.

He said he also expects the Transportation Ministry to do the same. For example, boats can be arranged for tourists to explore the water canals of the complex all the way to Batanghari River, which is connected to the waterways, he expounded.

He added he believes that support from the governor and the ministry would make it happen.

Meanwhile, director general for cultural affairs at the Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Ministry, Hilmar Farid, said that their commitment to pursue an in-depth study of the lost Muarajambi civilization is part of an effort to develop Muarajambi National Cultural Site as a fun, educative, and inspiring place for people.

Hilmar noted that the complex attracted foreign archeologists back in the 90s, and said he expects the findings of more historical items to revive interest in the place.