Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, raised his frustration over the United Kingdom (UK)’s reluctance to return historic artifacts taken during the colonial era. While countries like the Netherlands have signed agreements to repatriate artifacts, the UK has yet to commit.

“Artifacts looted during colonial times are not just objects; they are symbols of our identity,” he said in a meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR)’ Commission X on Wednesday (22/2024). 

Minister Fadli referenced the 1812 "Geger Spey" incident, where British official Thomas Stamford Raffles looted Yogyakarta Palace, sending hundreds of artifacts and manuscripts to Britain. 

These items, now housed in places like the British Museum and British Library, remain unrepatriated, according to antaranews.com.

The Culture Ministry continues to document these artifacts and has intensified its efforts for their return, though the UK has not responded. 

Indonesia is also restoring heritage sites such as Muara Jambi and Sangiran to strengthen awareness of its ancient civilization. 

“Our history deserves to be preserved and honored here, not in foreign museums,” Fadli emphasized.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)