Kanoman Heritage Building Museum Permanent Exhibition Space Inaugurated, Strategic Step to Advance the Cultural Economy

Cirebon, Controversy news, Com. – The inauguration of the Permanent Exhibition Space of the Cirebon Kanoman Palace Heritage Building Museum is an important milestone in the cultural journey of the City of Cirebon, Monday (17/11/2025). This event is not only about opening an exhibition space, but also about reaffirming our shared commitment to preserving the spirit and advancing the nation’s noble values ​​through sustainable conservation.

Present at the inauguration were the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Fadli Zon, Director General of Culture and Tradition Protection Restu Gunawan, Mayor of Cirebon, Effendi Edo and related regional officials, Sultan Raja Muhammad Emirudin as Sultan Kanoman XII, Prince Patih Raja Muhammad Qodiran and all relatives of the Kanoman Palace, as well as a number of cultural figures. The presence of these figures confirms the importance of this museum as an educational space and living space for Indonesian culture.

The Minister of Culture said that the museum that was inaugurated would continue to be perfected, both in terms of narrative and completeness of the collection.

“There is still a narrative that needs to be completed, including an explanation of the history of the collections in the museum. All of this is not just a display, but part of historical education which needs to have a digital touch to make it easier for the younger generation to understand,” he said.

The Minister of Culture also emphasized the importance of improving exhibition arrangements in all museums in Indonesia. He wants the museum to be a lively and comfortable place to study.

“Therefore, every year there will be standardization and assessment, including the story line and governance. Kanoman Palace can continue this improvement, and we are ready to support it until the narrative is final and ready to be widely promoted,” he added.

Not to forget, the Minister of Culture highlighted the cultural economic potential that can be developed through museums. “Museums must be a driver of the cultural economy. Miniature collections or heritage elements packaged as souvenirs, for example, can be an attraction and a source of benefit for the community,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Cirebon, Effendi Edo, in his speech expressed his respect for the presence of the Minister of Culture. “Thank you for your presence in our midst. The presence of the Minister is a sign of real recognition and support for the Kanoman Palace and all cultural preservation efforts in Cirebon City,” he said.

The Mayor said that the Cirebon City Government really appreciates the support provided by the Indonesian Ministry of Culture, especially in assisting museum institutions and communities.

“On behalf of the City Government and the entire community, we express our infinite gratitude for the extraordinary support that has enabled this museum to be managed more modernly as directed by the Minister,” he said.

The mayor emphasized that the Kanoman Palace is one of the pillars of Cirebon’s identity which holds the rich and unique heritage of Coastal civilization. It is hoped that the Heritage Building Museum will become a window of time where future generations can understand the heritage philosophy and emulate the virtues passed down from their ancestors. He also emphasized the City Government’s commitment to maintaining the sustainability of cultural heritage.

“We continue to strive to ensure that the revitalization of cultural heritage runs in harmony with the city’s spatial planning, as well as making culture the main capital for development, both for character education and strengthening cultural tourism,” he said.

Furthermore, the Mayor expressed his hope that synergy with the Ministry of Culture will continue to develop. “We hope that assistance for the City of Cirebon will not stop with this inauguration. We want the cultural heritage of the City of Cirebon to continue to grow, be sustainable and receive wider recognition, even at the global level,” he said.

The Mayor also expressed his appreciation to all parties involved. He hopes that this permanent exhibition space will bring maximum benefits to the community. “Hopefully this step will be a blessing for the City of Cirebon and make us individuals who are wise in looking at the past, wise in the present, and optimistic about the future,” he concluded.

On the same occasion, the Minister of Culture also visited the former Cirebon City Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services (DPMPTSP) office in the heritage area and Kejaksan Square.

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