BRIN Launches Archaeological Digs at Historical and Maritime Sites in Bumiayu, Bongal

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is embarking on a new archaeological excavation project to uncover ancestral heritage at the Bumiayu site in Brebes Regency, Central Java, and at the Bongal site in Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra.

“The excavation will focus on at least two planned locations, namely in Bumiayu, Central Java for historical and prehistoric archaeology, and in Bongal, North Sumatra for maritime archaeology," BRIN Head Laksana Tri Handoko said as reported by Antara on Friday, July 5.

In addition to preserving ancestral heritage, he said the excavations also aim to educate, shape, and create a new generation of Indonesian archaeologists. In the long term, the goal is to develop archaeology departments at various universities in Indonesia. He mentioned that there are only six archaeology departments in universities.

He said Indonesia's rich heritage provides authentic evidence of the nation’s vibrant culture and even world history. “Studying the past helps to organize a better future,” Tri remarked.

The BRIN would take the lead in exploring and excavating Indonesia's historical and prehistoric sites, while the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology would take over once a discovery is deemed to have significant cultural value.

Tri further mentioned the recent collaboration between the BRIN, Griffith University, and Southern Cross University in Australia, on the discovery of the oldest cave painting in Indonesia, dating back at least 51,200 years.

He hoped that such discoveries would inspire young people to pursue careers in archaeology and spark a sense of national pride.

ANTARA

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