RADAR TRENGGALEK – Preservation of suspected cultural heritage objects in Trenggalek remains limited as local authorities lack archaeologists and proper conservation facilities, officials said.

The ODCB preservation Trenggalek program currently relies on basic cleaning methods. The local Tourism and Culture Office applies only dry and wet cleaning without chemicals to avoid damaging fragile materials.

Cultural officer Heru Dwi Susanto said the approach follows technical guidance from the regional Cultural Preservation Agency. The district has no archaeologists and lacks specialized conservation tools.

“Treatment depends on the material. Stone objects receive only dry and wet cleaning without chemicals,” he said.

Dry cleaning removes surface dirt without water. Wet cleaning uses plain water to wash objects. Both methods aim to protect original structures while preventing further decay.

Storage also remains a major constraint. The local government has no permanent museum or proper warehouse to house evacuated objects. As a result, officials must carefully select which items to relocate.

“We assess site conditions, damage risks, and ownership status. If landowners can protect the objects, we cooperate without immediate evacuation,” Heru explained.

Suspected cultural heritage items are widespread across nearly all districts in Trenggalek. Authorities therefore prioritize preservation gradually based on risk and available resources.

The Tourism and Culture Office plans closer coordination with the Cultural Preservation Agency and other stakeholders. Officials hope stronger collaboration will safeguard ODCB as part of regional cultural heritage.