Indonesia targets revitalization of Jakarta's Sion Church

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has announced plans to support the revitalization and conservation of Sion Church in Jakarta. The 331-year-old structure is considered a significant historical asset and a piece of living heritage that reflects the colonial era and cultural acculturation in Batavia.

The government aims to revitalize approximately 240 cultural heritage sites throughout 2026. Minister Zon noted that if feasible, the restoration of Sion Church could begin as early as this year. He emphasized that preservation efforts must prioritize authenticity, maintaining the original materials, shapes, layouts, and architectural techniques rather than simply renewing or replacing parts of the building.

To assist in identifying priority sites, the Minister welcomed initiatives by the Indonesian Protestant Church (GPIB) to form a heritage unit to catalog churches over 100 years old. He also highlighted the need for scientific studies to address environmental challenges, such as urban pollution and humidity, which impact the durability of historic structures.