Inp.polri.go.id - Denpasar. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon announced that the rewriting of the nation’s history is expected to be completed within two months, with a public review planned for August this year. 

“We are not writing history from scratch; rather, we build on previous works while emphasizing Indonesia-centric perspectives, avoiding colonial or partisan views,” he said on Saturday (7/6/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.

The rewrite is led by professional historians from universities, updating the last official history written 26 years ago during President B.J. Habibie’s era.

Minister Fadli has asserted that the tone of the rewrite is positive, aiming to unite the nation by highlighting achievements rather than focusing on past mistakes. New findings, such as Islam’s arrival in the 7th century and the world’s oldest prehistoric paintings found in Indonesia, will be included to update the national narrative.

He stressed that the project involves qualified historians, not politicians or activists, ensuring credibility. However, he welcomed input from former President Megawati Soekarnoputri. 

(mg/inp/pr/rs)