The Indonesian Parliament Museum (Museum Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Republik Indonesia) is a specialized museumlocated in Jakarta Pusat that showcases the historical development of Indonesia’s legislature, known as the DPR RI. Officially registered under the national Museum Registration system, this museum is part of the extensive network of Indonesian Museums dedicated to preserving historical artifacts and stories that explain the evolution of democratic governance in Indonesia.
Located on the second floor of Gedung Nusantara within the MPR/DPR/DPD complex, the museum provides visitors with insights into the role and functions of Indonesia’s legislative body from its early beginnings to the present day.
What Is the Indonesian Parliament Museum?
The Indonesian Parliament Museum is a specialized historical museum that documents and exhibits the historical journey of Indonesia’s legislative institution — starting from the Volksraad during the Dutch colonial period to today’s DPR RI. The museum plays a key role in educating the public about the nation’s democratic development.
Museum Category & Type
- Museum Category: Specialized Museum — focused on legislative history.
- Museum Type: Type B — reflecting comprehensive educational and cultural significance.
This classification emphasizes the museum’s role in preserving and interpreting historical evidence that contributes to civic education.
Management & Ownership
The museum is owned and managed by the Secretariat General of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), with the Public Relations and Museum Management Division responsible for overseeing collection care, educational outreach, and exhibition planning.
History of the Museum
The idea to create the Parliament Museum began during the 1987–1992 DPR RI period, spearheaded by leaders who wanted to document and share the legislative body’s history. A dedicated foundation was formed to collect historical items, documents, and photographs relating to Parliament from the earliest incarnations of the Volksraad to modern legislative practices. The museum was formally established to curate and present these collections.
Museum Collections
The Indonesian Parliament Museum holds museum collections that include:
- Historical documents, photos, and artifacts related to legislative activities since colonial times.
- Memorabilia of parliamentary sessions, tools, and equipment.
- Visual and material records that help illustrate the evolution of the DPR RI and its function in Indonesia’s democratic system.
Many items are registered according to national museum standards, making this museum an important educational resource.
Vision
The vision of the Indonesian Parliament Museum is to become a leading source of information about the history and development of the DPR RI, managed professionally and presented in an inclusive, educational, and sustainable manner.
Mission
The museum’s mission includes:
- Disseminating information about the roles and functions of the Indonesian Parliament across time.
- Preserving and documenting historic legislative objects and records.
- Analyzing the historical context of parliamentary work for public understanding and research.
Role in the Museum Registration System
As a registered institution within the Museum Nasional & Indonesian Museum network, the Indonesian Parliament Museum contributes to national efforts in preserving democratic heritage and fostering public awareness about the legislative branch of government. Its curated collections and educational programs make it a valuable resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in Indonesian political history.
