The date October 12 is commemorated as National Museum Day. This commemoration serves as an important reminder of the significance of museums as places to store and care for the history, culture, and relics of the Indonesian nation. A museum is not merely a repository for ancient objects, but a source of knowledge and learning that can inspire the younger generation.

​National Museum Day was first initiated during the All-Indonesia Museum Conference (MMI) in Yogyakarta on October 12, 1962. Since then, museums have continuously been encouraged to become vibrant and enjoyable learning centers for the public, especially students.

​The Importance of Museums for Students
​For students, a museum can be a means of learning directly from the source. Seeing historical relics, understanding past stories, and getting to know important national figures and events become easier to grasp when observed firsthand.

​Museums also help foster a sense of patriotism and pride in one’s own culture.

​”We welcome National Museum Day as an important moment to invite students to become more familiar with the nation’s history and culture. At school, we regularly organize study visits to museums and encourage students to document local culture in their environment. This is important so they understand that preserving cultural heritage is a shared responsibility.”

​— Mr. Dasuki, S.Ag., Head of SMP PGRI Cikupa Bogor

​Activities That Can Be Done
​In commemoration of National Museum Day, here are several activities that can be carried out by schools or communities:

•​ Study visits to the nearest museum.
• ​Mini-exhibitions of local cultural objects at school.
• ​Writing competitions on historical or cultural stories.
• ​Joint viewing of historical documentary films.
• ​Inviting speakers to share stories about local culture or history.

​Through National Museum Day, we are reminded not to forget the historical roots of the nation. Museums are a window to the past that can help us understand the present and prepare for the future. Let’s protect and cherish Indonesia’s cultural heritage! (M.h)