Papuaaround.com – The Biak Numfor Regency’s Tourism Office has proposed designating the underwater museum in Nusi, Padaido Islands, as a cultural heritage site. This museum houses numerous World War II relics, including torpedoes, aircraft, and military equipment submerged beneath the sea.
Berto Sroyer, Head of the Destination Division at the Biak Numfor Tourism Office, emphasized the significance of preserving these historical artifacts. According to Indonesia’s Cultural Heritage Law (Law No. 11 of 2010), he stated that such sites can serve religious, social, educational, scientific, technological, cultural, and tourism purposes. Sroyer noted that, from a socio-economic perspective, cultural heritage sites are national assets that can become leading tourist destinations, boosting foreign exchange and enhancing public welfare. He stressed the importance of preserving these sites for future generations.
Kamaruddin, Head of the Biak Numfor Education and Culture Office, supports the proposal to designate the underwater museum as a cultural heritage site. He believes that such a designation would help maintain the authenticity of World War II relics. However, he pointed out that Biak currently lacks certified cultural heritage assessors and would need to rely on experts from Jayapura. Kamaruddin expressed hope that, once a team of assessors is available, the proposal can proceed.
The underwater museum in Biak has been identified as a potential leading tourist destination. In January 2024, the Biak Numfor Tourism Office announced plans to establish the museum as a premier attraction. The proposal was submitted to the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment during the closing of Sail Teluk Cenderawasih in November 2023. The office is awaiting official approval from the Ministry of Education and Culture. If approved, Biak Numfor would be the only regency in Indonesia with an underwater museum. The initiative has received support from the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and other related ministries.
The proposed museum encompasses the waters of Padaido and Aimando, including Nusi, Wundi, Mansorbabo, and surrounding villages. It contains a variety of World War II remnants, such as torpedo nets, vehicle wrecks, American aircraft wreckage, and other accessories. These artifacts remain visible in the waters of Padaido and Aimando, highlighting the area’s potential as a leading tourist destination in Papua. In 2024, Biak’s tourism destinations were included in the national priority agenda by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, aiming to increase tourist visits.
The proposal to designate the underwater museum as a cultural heritage site underscores the importance of preserving historical artifacts and promoting tourism in Biak Numfor. By safeguarding these relics, the region aims to attract more visitors, boost the local economy, and ensure that future generations can appreciate this unique underwater heritage.