Archaeologist Surya Helmi is urging the West Papua government to immediately form a Cultural Heritage Team (TACB). This is to protect cultural sites in West Papua.
According to Surya Helmi, the formation of TACB in each region is a mandate of the law. Additionally, TACB can recommend objects suspected to be cultural heritage to be officially recorded and registered as cultural heritage.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of protecting cultural sites, the role of TACB in preserving cultural heritage sites, and the steps that the local government can take to preserve the cultural heritage of West Papua.
The Importance of Protecting Cultural Sites
Papua land is rich in cultural heritage but has not been given much attention as a cultural heritage site. This is why Surya Helmi has urged the local government to establish TACB to protect valuable cultural sites in West Papua.
Valuable cultural sites are part of a nation’s cultural heritage and are valuable assets that must be protected and preserved. Cultural sites such as archaeological relics, historic buildings, and other cultural objects have high historical value.
In addition, cultural sites also have high economic value. They can be used as tourist destinations and can boost the local economy. Cultural tourism is also a draw for tourists who want to learn about the culture of a region and its history.
Unfortunately, many cultural sites have not been registered as cultural heritage sites and have not received adequate protection. This is a serious problem, as cultural sites are vulnerable to intentional and unintentional damage.
The Role of TACB in Preserving Cultural Heritage Sites
TACB is a team established to protect and maintain cultural heritage sites. TACB also recommends that suspected cultural heritage objects (ODCB) be officially recorded and registered as heritage sites.
Through TACB, cultural heritage objects can be well monitored and protected. TACB can also perform maintenance and care for cultural heritage objects so that they can be preserved and maintained properly.
The establishment of TACB in each region is mandated by law, and its role is crucial in preserving cultural heritage sites in Papua Barat. With TACB’s expertise and support, local governments can ensure that cultural heritage sites are maintained and preserved for future generations.
Furthermore, raising public awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage sites is essential. The involvement of local communities is crucial in this effort, as they can play a significant role in protecting and maintaining cultural heritage sites in their respective regions.
Maintaining Cultural Heritage Sites in West Papua
Surya Helmi also highlighted the need for the maintenance of cultural heritage sites to avoid the risk of damage to cultural heritage, both intentional and unintentional. An example of this is the Pepera Building. The building has historical value but has not been registered as a cultural heritage site, resulting in poor maintenance.
Therefore, there is a need for more serious attention from local governments in maintaining cultural heritage sites. In this regard, forming TACB in each region can help increase awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Appreciation to The Department of Culture and Tourism of West Papua
Despite these challenges, Surya Helmi still appreciates the Department of Culture and Tourism of West Papua for forming a team of experts in heritage conservation to designate ODCBs as cultural heritage sites. The designation process will be conducted through the Governor’s Decree by the expert team in heritage conservation.
This shows that the relevant parties have recognized the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites in West Papua. However, more serious efforts from the government are still needed to maintain and preserve these sites for the future.
Conclusion
The importance of protecting cultural sites in West Papua needs to be a joint concern. The cultural richness of Papua land is very abundant, but not all cultural sites are registered as cultural heritage. Therefore, Archaeologist Surya Helmi urges the West Papua government to form a Cultural Heritage Team (TACB) immediately.
