Archaeologist Warns Stairlift Could Threaten Borobudur Temple's Integrity

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The management of Borobudur Temple is considering installing a stairlift ahead of a planned visit by President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The move has drawn concern from heritage preservation experts, including Marsis Sutopo, Chairman of the Indonesian Archeological Experts Association (IAAI), who warned of the potential impact on the ancient structure.

"Borobudur is made of andesite stones that are highly vulnerable to pressure, friction, or collision, which can threaten the integrity of the stone and the overall stability of the temple structure," Marsis said in a written statement on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

He reminded that Borobudur has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991 (ratification number C.952) and designated as a National Cultural Heritage site under Ministerial Decree No. 286/M/2014.

All activities involving the temple, he stressed, must follow strict preservation standards outlined in Law No. 11 of 2010 on Cultural Heritage and other international heritage protection guidelines.

"The installation of the stairlift should not cause physical damage or diminish the image of Borobudur Temple as a National Cultural Heritage and World Heritage site," Marsis stated.

Highlighting Borobudur’s immense historical and cultural value, Marsis reaffirmed the IAAI’s support for government-led preservation efforts. “As a great nation that upholds culture, let us together respect and preserve Cultural Heritage as part of Indonesia’s wealth,” he said.

Responding to the criticism, InJourney Destination Management (IDM) CEO Maya Watono assured that the stairlift installation would not harm the temple. She said the device would be portable and would not involve drilling or nailing into the structure.

InJourney, formerly known as PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko, has coordinated with the Ministry of Culture and adhered to UNESCO's guidelines, Maya added.

She also clarified that the stairlift is not exclusively for the presidential visit but aimed at improving accessibility for those unable to climb the temple, including elderly monks seeking to worship at the summit.

“We believe worship should have no limitations, so we should be able to facilitate those who want to worship,” Maya said.

Editor's Choice: Buddhist Community Decries Lack of Dialogue on Borobudur Temple Stairlift Plan

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