Central government to revamp Bukit Siguntang

id Irene Camelyn Sinaga, kadisbudpar, bukit siguntang

Central government to revamp Bukit Siguntang

According to local Culture and Tourism Office Chief Irene Camelyn Sinaga (Foto Antarasumsel.com/Feny Selly)

Palembang, S Sumatra (ANTARA Sumsel) - The central government will help revamp the Bukit Siguntang tourism resort in Palembang, South Sumatra, according to local Culture and Tourism Office Chief Irene Camelyn Sinaga.

Speaking to newsmen here on Friday, Irene stated that the central government will help revamp the Bukit Siguntang area to make it more attractive to tourists.

Located in the village of Bukit Lama, four kilometers from the city of Palembang, Bukit Siguntang holds historical significance for Buddhists and is related to the Sriwijaya Kingdom.

The hill is considered sacred and has tombs of King Segentar Alam; princesses Kembang Dadar and Rambut Selako; and commanders Bagus Kuning, Bagus Karang, Tuan Junjungan, Raja Baru Api, and Jago Lawang.

"Bukit Siguntang has become a cultural tourist attraction in Palembang, and therefore, it should be revamped in order to attract more local and foreign tourists," Irene remarked.

She said the area is also home to several archeological relics believed to be related to the Sriwijaya Empire that ruled the region between the 6th and 13th centuries. The historical site also houses a statue of Buddha that was discovered in 1920.

Irene added that a mini theater and small museum will be built in the Bukit Siguntang area to house the archeological relics.