Conservation on Prambanan creating world-class destination

Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian state-owned enterprises holding company in aviation and tourism, InJourney, views the collaboration between Indonesia and India in conservation of Prambanan Temple aligned with the company's mission to develop world-class destinations.

"This collaboration aligns with InJourney's mission to develop world-class destinations through cultural preservation, strengthening international collaboration, and creating sustainable economic and social benefits," President Director of InJourney Maya Watono said on Wednesday (July 8).

She described the collaboration as both an effort to preserve one of the world's most significant cultural heritage sites and a testament to the longstanding friendship between Indonesia and India.

"The traces of this relationship are reflected in Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple area in Indonesia and one of the world's largest masterpieces of Hindu-Siva architecture. Built in the 9th century during the Ancient Mataram Kingdom, it has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991," Maya explained.

Related news: PM Modi prays for India-Indonesia prosperity during Prambanan visit

The collaboration between Indonesia and India, she added, shows that cultural heritage can serve as a bridge for deeper international cooperation while boosting tourism sector in Indonesia.

"This momentum is part of an effort to strengthen Indonesia's nation branding as a world-class cultural destination capable of sustainably managing cultural heritage through international partnerships," Maya said.

InJourney welcomed the collaboration, expressing optimism that it would enhance Indonesia's appeal, particularly among Indian travelers, while supporting the growth of high-quality inbound tourism.

"The preservation of cultural heritage must provide tangible benefits to the community through job creation, the growth of MSMEs and the creative economy, as well as improving the welfare of communities around the destination," Maya pointed out.

Related news: InJourney: PM Modi's visit to attract Indian tourists to Prambanan

Meanwhile, the Head of Museums and Cultural Heritage (MCB) at the Ministry of Culture, Esti Nurjadin, informed the collaboration between Indonesia and India in the temple conservation would be carried out while preserving the values for which Prambanan Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"All work will prioritize authenticity, integrity, and a scientific approach," she ensured.

Febrina Intan, the President Director of InJourney Destination Management (IDM) or PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko, also noted Prambanan Temple area has been viewed not merely as a tourist attraction or archaeological site, but also as a space for cultural diplomacy, spirituality, education, and international cooperation.

"India is a potential market for Indonesian tourism. Data on foreign tourist visits to the Prambanan Temple area shows that tourists from India average almost 4,000 per year," she outlined.

Related news: India's Modi pledges return for restored Prambanan Temple before 2029

Intan expected Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's visit to Prambanan could spur greater interest among Indian tourists in visiting Indonesia, while the accelerated restoration of the Prambanan area would further enhance its global appeal, especially among Indian visitors with historical and cultural ties to the site.

As a national tourism icon, Prambanan Temple attracts around 2.4 million domestic and international tourists annually, making it one of the most sought-after heritage destinations in Indonesia.

"This shows that Prambanan Temple is not only a cultural asset but also a strategic driver of Indonesia's competitiveness on the global stage," Intan remarked.

Related news: Prabowo hails Prambanan as symbol of Indonesia-India ancient ties

Related news: Prabowo says Prambanan's Ramayana reliefs unite Indonesia, India

Translator: Victorianus Sat Pranyoto, Resinta S

Editor: Fransiska Ninditya

Copyright © ANTARA 2026