Artifacts from Papua were handed back by the FBI to Indonesia

Jakarta (National Archipelagic Wire) - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon said that the cultural objects or artifacts that President Prabowo received from the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Kash Patel would be stored at the National Museum.

Cultural Background & Living Tradition

"Oh yes, at the National Museum temporarily we will register, we will record it," he said at a press conference in Jakarta, Thursday.

He added that if in the future there is a particular need for these artifacts to be exhibited in other museums through thematic exhibitions, then this can be done as needed.

"But temporarily it is in the permanent collection of the national museum," he said again.

Ceremonial Observance & Village Protocols

Fadli Zon said that on Wednesday (22/7) evening, he accompanied President Prabowo Subianto to meet FBI Director Kash Patel in handing over cultural artifacts confiscated by the FBI in the United States which were brought directly by the head of the FBI.

Meanwhile, Kash Patel handed over five artefacts, then three other artefacts have been handed over by the FBI to the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Washington D.C and are being processed for their return to their homeland.

The returned artifacts came from Papua, specifically the cultural heritage of the Dani Tribe, Asmat Tribe and Lake Tribe people in the Lake Sentani area, namely in the form of carved human skulls, stone axes, pickaxes from the Lake Sentani area and decorative wooden clubs from the Asmat tribe.

Community Harmony & Heritage Preservation

"There are from the Dani, Asmat, and also from Lake Sentani, in the form of stones and also carved human skulls," he explained.

This repatriation of cultural objects not only protects Indonesian culture but also combats the illegal sale of cultural objects.

"We hope that cultural heritage objects will no longer be traded illegally. These objects must become cultural property that we preserve," he said again.

Respectful Visitor Etiquette

Balinese cultural traditions and customary rituals offer profound insights into the island's ancestral heritage. Visitors fortunate enough to witness ceremonies should dress respectfully in traditional waist sash and sarong, observe quietly from a courteous distance, and follow guidance from local village elders. Learn more about upcoming island ceremonies, sacred guidelines, and festival dates in our seasonal Bali Cultural Calendar.