PHILIPSBURG – The Royal Institute of Southeast Asia and Caribbean Studies (KITLV) and Kadaster St. Maarten have signed an agreement to enhance the conservation and management of historical documents. 

Part of the “Islanders on the Helm” project led by Prof. Francio Guadeloupe, this partnership aims to safeguard critical heritage records housed at Kadaster.

The initiative includes specialized training for Kadaster staff in document preservation and management, as well as internships to foster mutual learning between the organizations. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a dedicated “heritage office” for preserving and scanning historical documents in a controlled environment.

Kadaster Director Benjamin Ortega called the collaboration a significant step in preserving regional heritage, ensuring these resources are available for future generations.