Indonesia”s national history book project, which has faced significant controversy, is slated for launch on December 14, according to Culture Minister Fadli Zon. This announcement comes after several delays amid concerns regarding the potential sanitization of the country”s historical human rights violations.
During a media briefing reported by state news agency Antara, Zon indicated that the draft for the project, which is intended to consist of 10 to 11 volumes, has now reached the editing stage. “According to the team”s report, the project is currently in the editing process, which differs from the writing phase,” he stated.
Interestingly, Zon revealed that he has not reviewed the content of the book, claiming he has not read “even a single paragraph,” as the drafting team has yet to submit their manuscript to the ministry. The writing team comprises over 100 historians and academics from various universities, who are working independently within their areas of expertise.
Hoping for timely completion, Zon expressed, “Hopefully the book can be completed by December 14 during the commemoration of National History Day.” This project was first announced in December of the previous year and aims to serve as the nation”s primary historical reference across all educational levels.
Originally, the launch was intended for August 17, coinciding with the country”s 80th Independence Day, but it was subsequently rescheduled to November 10 to align with National Heroes Day before the latest delay pushed it to December.
