Looking for information? What you need to know about research, loans and requesting images at Museum Maluku
Are you interested in Moluccan history and would you like to do research? Or would you like to borrow an object from our collection for an exhibition? Perhaps you are looking for images for a publication? Museum Maluku preserves and manages a remarkable collection full of stories about the Moluccan community in the Netherlands.
Because we are currently working on the inventory, registration and digitisation of the collection, not everything is immediately accessible. Even so, we are happy to help by sharing information about how you can do research, request a loan or use images from our collection. Below you will find the most frequently asked questions and answers.
Research and documentation
*Can the museum's collection be viewed online for research purposes? The Museum Maluku collection is currently being inventoried, registered and, where possible, digitised. This means the collection is temporarily unavailable to view online. It will be made accessible again in future.
*Can the museum carry out historical research for me or help me with research? Our physical and digital archives are temporarily unavailable because of a large-scale digitisation project. This means we cannot currently carry out historical research or provide support with it. As soon as our archives are accessible again, you will be able to carry out your own research on request. Would you like to stay informed? Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page.
*Can I have a family name added to Atlas Maluku? The website www.atlas-maluku.nl answers questions such as: who are my pela? Which family names belong to which villages? Museum Maluku developed this knowledge resource together with Hans van Hernen. It contains family ties and names by kampong. Because of a shortage of staff, Atlas Maluku is not currently being updated, and it is not possible to make new additions at this time. Would you like to stay informed about any updates? Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page.
Recommended platforms for research
*Molukse Voetstappen Molukse Voetstappen is an online knowledge base where everyone, with or without Moluccan roots, can find educational material and inspiring information about the shared Moluccan-Dutch history, culture and heritage. Particularly useful for teachers, pupils and anyone looking for reliable information for lessons or presentations. Visit Molukse Voetstappen.
*Ons Land The Ons Land platform helps you explore the shared history of the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies/Indonesia. Here you will find historical sources from archives and museums, informative stories and possibly even leads for your own family history. Discover Ons Land.
Loans and partnerships
*Does the museum accept temporary loans for exhibitions? Yes, Museum Maluku accepts loan requests. Because of the reorganisation of our collection we cannot currently offer curatorial services. This means the applicant must state themselves which objects they wish to borrow and why. In addition, transport to and from our depots in Rotterdam must be arranged by the borrower.
*How can I request a loan? A request can simply be submitted by email to Collections Care Officer Maria Pereira at m.pereira@museum-maluku.nl. State which objects you wish to borrow, and the purpose and duration of the loan. Please note that a request must be submitted at least three months before the desired start date.
*What are the criteria for approving loans? – The objects must be available and in stable condition. – The exhibition space must meet our safety standards. A Facility Report is required. – The borrower must insure the objects during transport and the exhibition.
*Are there costs involved in loans? Yes, there are costs for handling and transport. From 2025 until the end of 2026, however, the museum does not offer transport and installation services. Museum Maluku charges a handling fee of €65 per hour (excl. VAT). This covers preparing, inspecting and packing objects.
Donations and acquisitions
*Does the museum accept donations? Museum Maluku is always looking for special objects and stories that can enrich our collection. We greatly appreciate it when people consider donating something. Do you have an object that might be a fine addition? Then send an email to Museum Director Henry Timisela at h.timisela@museum-maluku.nl with a short description and photographs. We will gladly look together at whether and how your donation can find a place in our collection.
*What criteria apply to new acquisitions? Relevance to the collection determines whether an object is accepted as a donation. This decision is made by the Museum Director after consulting the collection team.
Copyright and reproductions
*Can I use image reproductions from the Museum Maluku collection? Yes, but only with the museum's approval. Images must also be credited correctly. Instructions on this are provided once approval has been given.
*Are high-resolution images available for study or publication? Some images can be supplied in high resolution. This has to be checked object by object.
*How can I request permission to publish images? You can send your request by email to Collections Care Officer Maria Pereira at m.pereira@museum-maluku.nl
*Are there costs involved in image reproductions? Yes, the museum charges for the use of images. You will find the current rates via the button below.
