Invites visitors to delve into a timeless legacy of love, leadership, and cultural heritage

Since its inauguration in 1978, the Pendopo of the Habibie & Ainun House has been a silent witness to key moments in Indonesia's history. Far more than just an architectural masterpiece, this pavilion has played a crucial role in the nation’s democratic transition, serving as a venue for important discussions among national leaders. With its exquisite design featuring teak carvings on its pillars and roof, the Pendopo exudes a timeless elegance that continues to reflect the values of B. J. Habibie and Hasri Ainun Habibie.

Now reopened to the public, the couple's private residence and former presidential house have been transformed into Habibie & Ainun House. Exclusive tours offer a unique experience to explore spaces filled with history and inspiration.  

One of the highlights of the tour is the Pendopo Room. Known for hosting elegant dinner banquets and jazz keroncong music performances for distinguished guests, the room’s design is a tribute to Javanese culture. The intricate wooden carvings, gebyok, and glass ornaments reflect Ainun Habibie’s deep appreciation for traditional art and craftsmanship.

This iconic room also holds a wealth of historical significance. It was here that Habibie, alongside Ginanjar Kartasasmita, prepared the transfer of power just one day before he assumed the presidency as Indonesia's third leader. The Pendopo also served as the setting for the drafting of the Press Freedom Law and the final cabinet meeting of the New Order era. A display cabinet in the room houses numerous awards, including the prestigious Star of the Republic of Indonesia Adipurna, underscoring the couple’s lifelong dedication to the nation.

Beyond the Pendopo, the Habibie & Ainun House features the Bhineka Tunggal Ika Room, which blends cultural symbols from Indonesia's five major islands. Panels in this room represent Galungan from Java, the Pinisi Ship from Sulawesi, the Rumah Gadang from Sumatra, the Batang Garing from Kalimantan, and Asmat carvings from Papua. The floor and ceiling ornaments depict the map of Indonesia and the nation's rich biodiversity of land, sea, and air. Leading from the Bhineka Tunggal Ika area to the library, visitors will find religious panels, including depictions of Hindu-Buddhism, Islam with the Baiturrahman Mosque, stories of Chinese traders, and Christianity with illustrations of the Cathedral and Blenduk Church.  

The Habibie & Ainun House also features a library housing approximately 5,000 books. Interestingly, the collection focuses solely on cultural topics, reflecting Habibie's profound appreciation for the nation’s heritage. This library serves as evidence that, beyond being a technocrat, Habibie was deeply committed to preserving arts and culture.  

Located at Jalan Patra Kuningan XIII No. 3, 5, and 7, the Habibie & Ainun House is more than a historical site—it also serves as a venue for educational programs, exhibitions, and various events. The reopening of this historic home fulfills the mandate of the Habibie family to benefit the Indonesian public, ensuring that the noble values and inspiration of B. J. Habibie and Hasri Ainun continue to resonate with future generations.

photo source : instagram.com/wismahabibieainun

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