September 2, 2025 | 09:55 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Archaeologists Association (IAAI) has lamented the destruction and burning of several buildings and cultural heritage items during widespread demonstrations over the weekend. The protests, which intensified after an online motorcycle taxi driver was run over by a Police Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob) vehicle last Thursday night, targeted the House of Representatives and other government buildings.
The General Chairperson of the IAAI, Marsis Sutopo, highlighted that international regulations protect cultural heritage, even during wartime. "The 1954 Hague Convention prohibits the destruction of cultural heritage, even in times of war," he said on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
Marsis noted that both the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Residence in Bandung and the Grahadi Building in Surabaya, which are considered cultural heritage, were targets of arson and looting last Friday and Saturday. Additionally, the Kediri Museum was looted or damaged.
The Grahadi State Building in Surabaya was set on fire by the masses on Saturday night, August 30, 2025. (ANTARA/Willi Irawan)
In a written statement, the IAAI emphasized that cultural heritage is a national legacy with historical, scientific, educational, and cultural value. It represents the nation's identity and unity, and must be preserved.
While Marsis affirmed the IAAI's support for democracy and freedom of expression, he expressed regret over the violence. "However, it is regrettable that burning and destruction have occurred," he said.
In response to the incidents, the IAAI is urging the government and cultural site managers to increase security for vulnerable heritage buildings and items. They also requested that museum authorities, especially in urban areas, tighten supervision to prevent similar events.
"IAAI invites all parties to safeguard and preserve cultural heritage as the priceless wealth of the nation," Marsis concluded with a broader appeal.
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