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The Museum Rumah Kelahiran Bung Hatta, or the Birthplace Museum of Bung Hatta, is a significant historical site located in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, Indonesia. This museum was established to commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Mohammad Hatta, affectionately known as Bung Hatta, who was Indonesia’s first Vice President and a key figure in the country's independence movement. The museum is set in the house where Bung Hatta was born on August 12, 1902. Preserved in traditional Minangkabau style, the museum offers an insightful journey into the personal life, values, and contributions of one of Indonesia's national heroes.
The museum is located on Jalan Soekarno Hatta in the city center of Bukittinggi, which makes it easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport. If you are coming from outside Bukittinggi, the nearest airport is Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang. The airport is approximately 95 kilometers from Bukittinggi. You can reach the city by taxi, rental car, or intercity buses in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once in Bukittinggi, local transport options such as “angkot” (minivans), taxis, or online ride-hailing apps can take you directly to the museum. It is also within walking distance from Jam Gadang and other nearby attractions.
Bukittinggi enjoys a cool highland climate due to its elevation of about 930 meters above sea level. The weather is generally pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 17°C and 26°C (63°F to 79°F). The region experiences a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. The best time to visit the museum is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and comfortable for walking. However, even during the rainy season, the mornings are usually clear enough to visit indoor attractions like this museum.
The museum is open to the public every day except on national holidays. Opening hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with last admission around 3:30 PM. It is recommended to visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and to have enough time to explore the museum thoroughly. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, making them ideal for visitors who prefer a more peaceful and reflective experience.
This museum is famous because it is the birthplace of Bung Hatta, one of Indonesia’s founding fathers. Bung Hatta played a vital role in the country’s struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule and later became the first Vice President of Indonesia. The museum not only preserves his birthplace but also showcases his life story, educational background, and moral values. It serves as a tribute to Bung Hatta’s simple lifestyle, intellectual achievements, and dedication to democracy and social justice. As a result, the museum is considered a symbol of national pride and is often visited by students, researchers, and patriots.
The entrance fee to the museum is very affordable, typically around IDR 5,000 to 10,000 (less than $1 USD). Children, students, and groups may receive special discounts. There are local guides available who can provide background information about Bung Hatta’s life and explain the significance of various exhibits, although many displays have both Indonesian and English descriptions. The museum has a quiet and respectful atmosphere, and photography is generally allowed except in certain restricted areas. Restrooms and a small gift shop selling books and souvenirs are also available.
The house where Bung Hatta was born was originally built in the late 19th century in traditional Minangkabau style. After his death, the building was restored and officially opened as a museum in 1995. The architecture reflects the typical wooden house design of West Sumatra, with curved "horn-like" roofs called “gonjong,” which symbolize buffalo horns and represent the Minangkabau people. Inside, the house is divided into several rooms, each with wooden furniture, vintage photos, books, and personal belongings that once belonged to Bung Hatta and his family. The museum aims to preserve the ambiance of early 20th-century life in Bukittinggi while highlighting Bung Hatta’s formative years.
Visiting this museum offers a meaningful cultural and educational experience. You can explore various rooms of the house, such as the living room, bedroom, kitchen, and study area, each furnished to reflect life during Bung Hatta’s time. A highlight for many visitors is seeing Bung Hatta’s typewriter, books, and handwritten letters. In the small museum gallery, you will find exhibits about his role in the nationalist movement, his time in exile, and his diplomatic work after independence. Outside the house, there is a peaceful garden where visitors can sit and reflect. Educational programs for school groups and occasional public lectures are also held here.
Interesting Facts:
- Bung Hatta was born in this house on August 12, 1902.
- He studied in the Netherlands and earned a degree in economics.
- The museum was inaugurated in 1995, 15 years after his death.
- Bung Hatta is often remembered for saying, “I can live without a state, but I cannot live without books.”
- The house’s architecture is preserved to closely match its original appearance.
Travel Tips:
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and allow time to explore other nearby attractions.
- Take a guide if you want deeper insights into Bung Hatta’s life and contributions.
- Be respectful — this is a cultural and historical site, not just a tourist stop.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but check for signage in restricted sections.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the floors are wooden and can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Combine your visit with other Bukittinggi landmarks like Jam Gadang and Fort de Kock for a full-day itinerary.
