Jakarta’s old town gets help from AkzoNobel in its bid for UNESCO World Heritage status

AkzoNobel’s colour and coatings expertise is playing a major role in restoring the historic Kota Tua (old town) area of Jakarta in Indonesia. It is hoped that the partnership – established as part of the company’s Human Cities initiative – will help the site to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.

The restoration work, which will include repainting the Jakarta History Museum (pictured) – is scheduled to be carried out in two phases and will also extend to other parts of the city.

Regarded as an important cultural and historical icon, Kota Tua dates back to the 16th Century and is home to several landmark buildings. It’s currently in the running to be Indonesia’s ninth site on the UNESCO World Heritage list, with a final decision expected in mid-2017.

"We are honoured to have partnered with the Government of Jakarta to help restore these iconic landmarks, which represent the city’s living history,” said Jeremy Rowe, Managing Director of AkzoNobel’s Decorative Paints business in South East and South Asia and Middle East. The first phase of the restoration project will include repainting Jakarta History Museum, Seni Rupa museum and the Kota Intan bridge.