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Barack Obama’s former house in Jakarta, Indonesia, was recently declared a Heritage Building.

The government of Special Capital District of Jakarta Province, on August 28, 2008 determined two house buildings that were located at Amir Hamzah Garden Street no. 22 and Lamandau Street no. 16 as “Cagar Budaya” (Cultural Heritage) Buildings. The two houses were successful eliminated 28 other house buildings. There are three criteria to win, the first criterion, the house must be at least 50 years old. Secondly, the foundation of the house must never be changed. The third criterion, the house must in the good condition and is maintained well.

The house in Amir Hamzah Garden Street no. 22 was built in 1939. Lolo Soetoro’s family including his stepson Barack Obama (was known as Barry Soetoro at that time), the U.S. president candidate from Democratic Party, was living at this house during year 1970-1971.

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The owner of the house, Abu Bakar (78 years old), who served as Indonesian Navy in the past, still remembered little Obama who lived in his house 38 years a go. At that time, Obama, or Barry, had a poodle dog. At one time, his poodle dog was lost, it was suspected bolted when the door was open. Obama cried all day long. Abu Bakar recalled Obama as the cute child. He did not like people stroked his head.

From the province government Abu Bakar got a certificate and cash of Rp 6,500,000 (USD 714) before tax. The old house will be maintained and it will remain there as long as possible.