Minister Fadli Zon Highlights the Cultural Value of Postcards

SEAToday.com, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has emphasized the importance of preserving postal artifacts as part of the nation’s history and identity.

One of the latest initiatives supporting this effort is the launch of the book "Kartu Pos dari Buitenzorg", a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the Philatelic Society.

"This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s mission to preserve cultural heritage and introduce it to future generations,"said Minister Fadli Zon in an official statement, as quoted on Antara, in Jakarta on Friday.

He highlighted that postcards and philatelic items are part of tangible cultural materials that will gain greater appreciation over time.

Additionally, Fadli Zon noted that stamps and postcards serve as bridges of diplomacy, connecting different nations.

"They are not only communication tools but also play a crucial role in cultural diplomacy, capturing historical events, natural beauty, arts, and Indonesian traditions for the world. These postcards have been sent across various countries and regions," he explained as quoted on Antara.

The book, "Kartu Pos Bergambar Buitenzorg", co-authored by Fadli Zon and Mahpudi, narrates the history of Bogor (formerly Buitenzorg) during the Dutch colonial era, using postcards as a storytelling medium.

It features a collection of 179 vintage postcards across 166 pages, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and Bogor Botanical Gardens, as well as daily life in colonial-era society.

The book has also been recognized with a gold medal at the 2025 National Philatelic Exhibition (Panfila 2025).

"Through this book, we aim to explore Bogor’s historical footprints during the Dutch East Indies period, particularly from 1890 to 1930. It not only preserves these historical images but also encourages us to reflect on the city’s and its people’s evolution over time," Fadli Zon concluded as quoted on Antara.

Writer: Andi Raisa Malaha Thambas