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14 Dec 2020
Keeping the History Alive : Heritage Interpretation of Benteng Oranje
Project leader: Mrs. Roswita M. Aboe
Level of education and university: Master, Monash University
Collaborating Organisations: Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia (HPI) and Ternate Heritage Society (THS)
Project Location: Maluku Utara
Activity Type: Training, workshop or seminar
Sector: Human resources development
Project Rationale:
From the 16th to the 18th century, the Spice Islands (North Maluku and Maluku Provinces) were significant globally as the sole source of cloves and nutmeg. The Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch and English fought to control the islands and the spice trade, with both resistance of and alliances with local sultans. Despite its international and national heritage value, the story of the islands remains largely untold. On-site, historic events are hidden by decaying fort and settlement infrastructure. Yet this tangible heritage has the potential to be an international tourist attraction that might not only ensure the protection of the heritage but provide opportunities for local communities to present and build pride in their heritage and improve their well-being.
The cessation of tourism with COVID-19 provides an opportunity to consolidate knowledge of colonial history and commence planning for making the Moluccas an internationally renowned tourist destination. The key attraction will be the numerous forts, the associated interpretation of historical events and how these affected the lives of local communities.
This project seeks to initiate steps towards improved presentation of the global significance of the North Moluccas. Benteng (Fort) Oranje, Ternate, North Maluku, will be the initial focus because of existing interest of HPI, THS, local and provincial governments, Khairun University and the University of the Sunshine Coast. Once the 17th century capital of the Dutch East India Company's trade empire in Asia, Benteng Oranje is prominent in Ternate and representative of the colonial history. It can become the gateway to Moluccan heritage and central to transitioning North Maluku and Maluku Provinces to a tourism-enriched future, post-COVID-19. Fundamental to this vision is ensuring that the values and significance of the fort are clearly understood, and quality interpretation is delivered.
Project Beneficiaries:
Initially 30 Members of HPI (Himpunan Pramuwisata Indonesia) and THS (Ternate Heritage Society)
Priority Development Area:
Human development for a productive and healthy society
Link with Australian organisation:
The University of Sunshine Coast - Australia
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