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SARINAH as Indonesia’s first modern department store even in Southeast Asia was built in 1962 and operated in 1966. Sarinah’s name is enshrined from the loyal caregiver of the Republic of Indonesia proclaimer, Bung Karno who has the talent to embroider and represent millions of Indonesians who are skilled in the creative home industry.
The establishment of Sarinah Building as the first Modern Retail Store, was based on the spirit of nationalism and Bung Karno’s concern for the home industry. The development, which is located in the center of Jakarta, at the same time as the construction of the Bung Karno (GBK) Building, Semanggi, Monas and other Masterpieces, is a lighthouse project whose benefits continue to be felt today even though Bung Karno is gone.
“The renovation of the Sarinah Building is not just a renewal and refreshment but also a manifestation of the history of Indonesia’s retail trade which was born from the noble ideals of the founders of this nation. Soekarno’s philosophy is very profound, he reflects on his nanny. Sarinah has taught me, educated me to understand that everything in this country depends on the little people. Many things must be addressed (by Sarinah),” Erick Thohir, Minister of State-Owned Enterprises.
He affirmed that renewal needs to be done to be able to stay competitive, but by not leaving the historical value of Sarinah itself. Sarinah is a project created by Pak Soekarno that is extraordinary. Today Sarinah must have Sarinah going forward.
Erick added, therefore President Jokowi himself with me had discussed how to make this retail concept more friendly to Indonesia, which means aligning with local brands and curated Small and Medium Businesses (SMEs).
“The transformation of Sarinah is essentially returning to its core while maintaining the integrity of the heritage of the nation’s founders, but with the present packaging and existence and which promises sustainable business growth in the future,” Erick Thohir noted.
On the other hand, he continued, the building which has been more than half a century old is indeed the time renovated to maintain the structure’s robustness by considering the Golden Rule related to Safety, Health and the Environment. Actually the renovation plan has long been launched but only at this time began to be rolled out.
Regarding the renovation schedule, which is planned to start in June 2020, but due to the lack of the COVID-19 outbreak, renovation work began with design, architecture, mapping, technical audit and others that did not cause crowds. which then only continued with physical construction.
The conditions that we are facing right now are being utilized by PT. Sarinah for the design activities. It is hoped that if the outbreak is over then construction work can begin immediately in stages. On the right occasion we will announce to the people the direction map and blueprint for Sarinah’s transformation and expect the blessing and support of all Indonesian people and visitors and tourists to Sarinah.
As a result of this renovation and in maintaining the Golden Rule the physical building must be emptied and demolition of tenant’s outlets also needs to be done. Especially for the tenants of Mc Donald where Sarinah is their flagship store, we admit that Sarinah Thamrin is a sentimental landmark especially for young people in the 90s.
It is not just a coincidence that Sarinah also has historical and sentimental value for generations 60, 70 and even 80’s Baby Boomers. This is the value that Sarinah wants to build as the nation’s flagship retail that is charming and highly attractive not only for consumers, employees, management but for the entire Indonesian community.
Our collaboration with tenants is generally always maintained and sustainable. This is an embodiment that Sarinah has high selling points and is managed with a family spirit and alignments to Micro, small and medium businesses (MSMEs). However, we are aware that the temporary closure has an impact on tenants.
In accordance with the Lease agreement, all rights and obligations of the parties will be resolved by deliberation for an agreement that can be accepted by all parties (amicable solution). Thank you to all parties for your understanding and cooperation. Please pray for Sarinah as the historical department store of this nation to move back and with the community towards a better future, especially in achieving the rise of local brands and products with global quality and global products with local content in the national leading MSME value chain.. [sources/photo special]
