Museum Mahkamah Konstitusi (Supreme Court Jakarta)

The Museum Mahkamah Konstitusi (or Museum of the History of the Indonesian Constitution) is located in the Supreme Court of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta.

The Museum was opened by President Jokowi in December 2014. It is probably one of the best museums to visit in Jakarta if you are interested with Indonesia's contemporary history. It is very modern, with interesting displays and videos. The first part is more a story of Indonesia's Independence, while the second part focuses on the Constitution itself. If you ask in advance, it seems you can also see where the Supreme Court deliberates.

The major problem is that almost everything is written in Indonesian so if you don't speak any Bahasa, you will waste your time. They can organize a private visit in English but you need to call in advance to arrange it.

The visit is done chronologically, starting from Indonesia under the colonial rule until today. It tells a rather patriotic and official version of history, probably similar to how it is taught to Indonesians at school. Previous leaders are all heros who had only the Nation's best interest in mind. In the end, you will watch a 45-minute documentary in a very comfortable theater.

The Mahkamah Konstitusi is free but again, call them before showing up as they are still new and they don't seem to be used to welcome so many tourists yet. Since it is located in an official government building, the security is tight and you will be asked to wear decent clothes (no shorts and preferably a shirt). You should also bring your ID or passport.

Museum of the Constitution Jakarta

Jalan Merdeka Barat No.6

Central Jakarta 10110

Phone number: +62 (0) 21 23529000

Fax: +62 (0) 21 3520177

E-mail: humas@mahkamahkonstitusi.go.id

Weekdays from 9am to 5pm. You must call first.