Indonesia, mau dibawa ke mana?

Reclaiming NKRI Identities: The Birthplace of a Nation is a collaboration with IAI Jakarta and Jakarta Architecture Festival 2024, aimed at sparking broader discussions about Indonesia's future. Through historical reflections and the symbolism of Gedung Pola—a birthplace of the nation and a center for national development planning during Soekarno’s leadership—the discussion sought innovative approaches for Indonesia’s future development. The discussion highlighted the fading spirit of nation-building amidst the complex challenges faced by the nation, which extend beyond architectural practices. This has led to development that lacks meaning.

The discussion featured Achmad Zakaria, representing the younger generation practicing as an architect, Bambang Eryudhawan, a heritage expert and architect, and Sigit Lingga, Executive Director of Bung Karno Foundation. The session was moderated by Tiyok Prasetyoadi.

“I established the Gedung Pola Pembangunan Nasional Semesta Berencana to realize the ideals and goals of independence."

Soekarno, in the Opening Speech of the 8th Baperki Congress, 1964

Achmad Zakaria quoted Sidarto Danusubroto on Bung Karno’s vision, emphasizing that Indonesia is a nation committed to preserving its natural resources while empowering educated youth to lead sustainable development. Achmad invited the audience to reflect on the spirit of nation-building from Indonesia’s early generation in addressing today’s challenges. Since Soekarno stepped down, Indonesia’s forest coverage has drastically decreased.

According to various sources, extractive natural activities for the construction industry contribute approximately 25-50% of the impact on climate change. Through his practice, he strives to explore non-destructive approaches to land use in construction and foundational thinking that considers multiple aspects, aiming to provide solutions—both design and non-design—that are responsive to today’s complexities.

"Bung Karno left Indonesia as a virgin and rich archipelago. Bung Karno prohibited the clearing of forest concessions (HPH)."

"Darto, I [Bung Karno] have not invited foreign capital yet. I will invite it only after the nation’s best talents, whom I sent abroad to Eastern Europe, Western Europe, America, and Russia, return home and take charge of managing the country’s natural resources—not foreigners. That was Soekarno."

Sidarto Danusubroto, Former Member of the Presidential Advisory Council, quoting Bung Karno toward the end of his leadership (on his interview).

Achmad Zakaria during his presentation.

Bambang Eryudhawan reflected on how Gedung Pola embodies the spirit of nation-building, emphasizing that Indonesia’s true Point Zero is located at Gedung Pola. It serves as the starting point of the nation’s journey, even before independence and the establishment of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), as well as a center for post-independence development planning.

He highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in addressing critical issues that are often overlooked in development efforts. This approach can lead to architecture that is sensitive to national values and contemporary challenges, focusing on creating meaningful environments for both the present and future generations. Collaboration among stakeholders, including the architectural community, is essential for Indonesia's strategic future development.

Bambang Eryudhawan, a heritage expert and architect.

Sigit Lingga from the Bung Karno Foundation took the audience on a historical journey of Indonesia’s development, showcasing the Indonesian Proclamation, Soekarno’s vision, and monumental projects such as Ancol, Istora Senayan (now GBK) for the 1962 Asian Games, Sarinah, Semanggi, Bundaran HI, the Monumen Selamat Datang, and various other significant landmarks.

Gedung Pola, as the center of national planning, was built in the backyard of Bung Karno's residence on Jalan Pegangsaan Timur 56, near Monument. Gedung Pola holds not only physical significance but also serves as a symbol of the nation-building spirit. It also functioned as a venue for national planning exhibitions, including the Pameran Pola Pembangunan Nasional Semesta Berencana, Pameran Pembangunan V/1965, and various important building projects during Soekarno’s leadership.

Sigit Lingga, Executive Director of Bung Karno Foundation.

Tiyok Prasetyoadi as the session moderator.

Tiyok Prasetyoadi concluded that this discussion does not end here. It aims to ignite broader conversations to seek innovative development approaches that carry forward the spirit of nation-building. Although the discussion was brief, it carries the hope of inspiring the spirit within each of us to bring something better to the table. It reminds us, regardless of our roles, architects, developers, or others, of our shared responsibility to learn from the past and work together to shape a more meaningful and sustainable future for Indonesia.

[PDW/PSY]