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Indonesia has picked an architect to design a museum in Aceh province in memory of the close to 170,000 people who died there during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. But the project is not without controversy. Adamy Aulina, assistant manager for public facilities and building at the Aceh-Nias Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Agency, says she hopes the museum will help survivors heal. But the museum has its critics who are concerned the project comes too soon after the disaster, and could draw resources away from thousands of people who are still battling to rebuild their lives.

Read article (Voice of America, August 27, 2007)

See photos of the winning design by Ridwan Kamil

The Brazilian port city of Santos will build a museum to honor its best-known treasure: Pele.

Santos Mayor Joao Paulo Tavares Papa said the 16 million real (US$8 million, €6.6 million) museum would spearhead the renovation of the city’s historic district, presently in ruins.

Papa announced the project on Thursday with Pele and Sao Paulo state Governor Jose Serra.

“We are joining the desire of Pele with the disposition of the governor and the recovery of our heritage. These are long-standing dreams,” Papa said on the city’s Web site.

Pele, 66, leaped when Papa made the announcement and punched the air, his trademark commemoration after scoring a goal.

“This project will attract tourism and promote the country, that deserves this gift,” he said. “I feel proud.”

Read full article (International Herald Tribune, August 24, 2007)