JAKARTA – Time Magazine has named House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta to its prestigious World’s Greatest Places 2026 list on an article with the same title published on Wednesday (12/3/2026). This honor is reserved for destinations around the world celebrated for their cultural significance and authentic guest experiences.

The recognition also highlights places with a lasting impact on global travel. Proudly, House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta is the only Indonesian property recognized this year, placing Indonesia’s cultural heritage in the international spotlight.

Time was founded in 1923 and has long been one of the most influential publications in global media. For decades, it has shaped public discourse through its editorial authority and global reach.

Its recognitions include Person of the Year and the Time 100 Most Influential People. More recently, its World’s Greatest Places list has become a key reference for global travel and culture.

For the Tugu family, this recognition is not merely an accolade in hospitality. It represents a profound acknowledgment of a lifelong mission to safeguard Indonesia’s vanishing cultural soul.

In the 1960s, founder Anhar Setjadibrata witnessed history slipping away as antiques were discarded and traditions faded. He began collecting endangered artefacts as a rescuer, and together with his wife Wedya Julianti, built the foundation of Tugu as a living tribute to Indonesia’s identity.

Today, under the leadership of Lucienne Anhar, co-owner of Tugu Hotels & Restaurants Group, that mission continues with renewed urgency. “We never set out to build a hotel empire,” she reflects (17/3/2026).

“We set out to protect a civilization. Each space in House of Tugu tells the story of Indonesian people whose voices could have been lost.” Lucienne Anhar, co-owner of Tugu Hotels & Restaurants Group.

Time highlighted House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta for offering something rare in Indonesia. It serves as a public home for Peranakan heritage, a culture once suppressed and now regaining visibility.

Through its art, architecture, and storytelling, the property becomes more than just a destination. It acts as a custodian of collective memory where Indonesian heritage is preserved and shared with the world.

The property is also home to Jajaghu, a refined Nusantara dining destination inspired by ancestral recipes. It features Babah Koffie by Kawisari, a nostalgic café celebrating Java’s oldest colonial-era coffee estate.

Expanding its storytelling experience, Tugu will launch De Tiger in May 2026 as a poolside speakeasy and live music salon. In June 2026, it will unveil The Huang Museum, showcasing thousands of previously unseen artefacts from its private archives.

More than a destination, House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta represents a cultural movement. It invites the world to rediscover Indonesia as a civilization rather than merely a travel destination.

This recognition from Time Magazine reinforces Indonesia’s global cultural influence and creativity. House of Tugu stands at the forefront of this narrative with pride and purpose.

This recognition carries deep significance for Indonesia’s tourism landscape. It comes at a time when global travelers increasingly seek meaningful and authentic experiences.

House of Tugu emerges as a symbol of how Indonesia’s living heritage can inspire the world. Rather than marking an end, this honor signals a new beginning to preserve and share the richness of Indonesian culture for future generations. (*)