Despite being a subject of controversy and heated discussions on social media, the construction of the Reog Monument continues. Ponorogo Regent, Sugiri Sancoko, stated on Tuesday (January 14, 2025) that the main structure of the monument is now 90 percent complete. Meanwhile, the development of supporting facilities and infrastructure is still ongoing.
This monument aims to strengthen Ponorogo's identity as the birthplace of Reog, which has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. In addition to being a monument, MRMP will also function as a museum showcasing the history and evolution of Reog, as well as the civilization of Ponorogo Regency. Furthermore, it is designed to be a center for arts and cultural activities for the community and a new tourist destination that is expected to attract more visitors to Ponorogo.
Once completed, the Reog Monument will have a total height of 126 meters, consisting of a 60-meter-tall Reog statue standing atop a 14-story building. With this height, the monument will be one of the tallest in Indonesia, even slightly taller than the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue in Bali, which stands at 121 meters in total.
With the presence of the Reog Monument and Civilization Museum, Ponorogo further establishes itself as a cultural and tourism hub, not only making the local community proud but also serving as a national icon that elevates traditional arts to the global stage.