RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The historic Keraton Sumedang Larang (Sumedang Larang Palace) and the wider Sumedang region are being positioned as a future center of Sundanese culture and a leading cultural tourism destination in West Java.

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon underscored the area’s potential during a visit to Sumedang on Saturday, January 17, 2026, noting that it should evolve beyond a stopover into a primary destination.

“Sumedang has great potential to become the heart of Sundanese culture. It should not remain just a transit point, but must truly be developed into a main destination,” Minister Fadli said, as quoted by

He added that the region could attract visitors through diverse offerings including cultural and historical tourism, natural landscapes, religious sites, and culinary experiences, all of which would benefit the local community.

Minister Fadli emphasized that Keraton Sumedang Larang could serve as an epicenter for advancing Sundanese culture. “Palaces or sultanates are vital places to preserve, protect, and promote cultural heritage,” he explained.

He also stressed the importance of sustained efforts to safeguard traditions and empower younger generations as agents of cultural continuity.

During his visit, Minister Fadli toured Museum Pusaka, Bale Seni, Gamelan Hall, and Gedung Nagara Sumedang, reiterating the need for a strong cultural ecosystem to ensure the long-term progress of Sundanese heritage.

Sri Radya of Keraton Sumedang Larang, H.R.I. Lukman Soemadisoeria, expressed readiness to protect the palace’s assets and support cultural advancement. “We hope revitalization of Nusantara palaces, especially Keraton Sumedang Larang, can be carried out swiftly,” he said.

Today, Keraton Sumedang Larang functions as the Prabu Geusan Ulun Museum, housing treasured artifacts such as the Binokasih Crown, royal thrones, heirloom weapons, ancient manuscripts, gamelan instruments, and the royal carriage - tangible reminders of Sumedang’s enduring cultural legacy. ***