KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon officially set the stage for a massive cultural recovery operation in Sumatra starting next week, emphasizing that human safety remains the primary precursor to heritage preservation. 

Speaking in Jakarta on Sunday, December 21, 2025, he detailed a plan to use IDR 11 billion (USD 658,8) in initial funding to repair over 100 sites in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. 

“What is clear is that we have prepared around IDR 11 to 12 billion from our efficiency [at the Ministry of Culture] for the initial cleaning phase, as there are many sites,” said the Minister during a media briefing in Jakarta on Sunday, December 21, 2025, as quoted by Antara.​

Minister Fadli noted that the number of identified heritage sites impacted by flash floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra has risen to over 100. 

“We are continuing to identify cultural heritage sites in Sumatra affected by flash floods and landslides; the number has indeed increased from 43 to 70, and now the figure is over 100. This is because we previously faced difficulties reaching areas that were cut off,” he explained.

The assessment of the damaged sites is being conducted by the Cultural Preservation Center (BPK) in each affected region, showing damage levels ranging from light to severe. The Ministry has prepared the budget for assistance, specifically for those with light, medium, and heavy damage. Most of the damage occurred at museums and various tomb sites that are also classified as cultural heritage.

The Ministry targets to begin the handling and restoration process next week by fostering cooperation and mutual assistance with local residents. 

“We have prepared everything and will begin next week in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. This will be done immediately, of course, through 'gotong-royong' (mutual cooperation) with the local community,” he said.

He further emphasized that while cultural sites are important, the initial focus during the disaster was on the safety of the people. “We know that our priority was the people; during the disaster, our primary focus was on emergency response mitigation,” Minister Fadli concluded. ***