Beneath the Jakarta sky stands Monumen Tekad Merdeka. What stories does this monument hold?
Monumen Tekad Merdeka stands proudly in the Pasar Senen station complex. It serves as a powerful reminder of Indonesia’s fight for independence. Once hidden, this monument now stands for all to see.
The area around Senen was a battleground. Indonesian fighters clashed with enemy forces here. This happened after Allied warships arrived in Jakarta Bay in 1945. Mr. Roem’s house on Jalan Kwitang was attacked. There were battles at the Hotel Taytung. Fighting raged around Bungur and Tanah Tinggi. A major clash in Senen on October 13, 1945, led to many Indonesian fighters being captured. There was also fighting on Jalan Kramat Raya that same month. Monumen Tekad Merdeka commemorates these events.
Monumen Perjuangan Senen embodies the spirit of the revolution. It shows the support from all parts of society. The monument features figures representing the people, youth, and even children.
Look closely at the figures that surround the monument. A young man wears a peci. He holds a pistol in his right hand. His left hand supports a wounded comrade who carries a bamboo spear and a machete. Another figure shows a young man in a beret with a scarf. He stands tall with a sword in his hand. The inscription honors the “generation of 45” for their support of the Proclamation. A young man wears a head covering with bullets around his waist. His inscription says he would sacrifice himself again for his country. Finally, a girl with pigtails and a bag leads a barefoot boy.
The monument’s construction involved materials from Sleman, Central Java. Sadiman, Suhartono, and Haryang Iskandar sculpted the figures. They were assisted by painter Suyono Palal. The adult figures stand two meters tall. The children are one meter high.
Monumen Tekad Merdeka was inaugurated on May 2, 1982. A. Munir, the Mayor of Central Jakarta, dedicated the monument. The goal was to ensure that people can understand Senen’s history.
Today, Monumen Tekad Merdeka serves as a reminder. It reminds us of the sacrifices made for freedom. As you journey onwards remember the spirit of Monumen Tekad Merdeka. Remember the determination for independence.