World Peace Gong

Symphony of Reconciliation: An Architectural Review of the Ambon World Peace Gong

The World Peace Gong (Gong Perdamaian Dunia) in Ambon City is more than just a static monument gracing the city center. It is an architectural masterpiece that serves as an anchor for collective memory and a symbol of the resilience of the Maluku people. Standing majestically in the Lapangan Merdeka area, Sirimau District, this structure encapsulates Ambon's narrative of transition from a period of conflict to an era of sustainable harmony.

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Historical Context and Philosophy of Development

The development of the World Peace Gong in Ambon was rooted in the social conflict that plagued the region from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. This monument was inaugurated on November 25, 2009, by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as the 35th peace gong in the world. However, architecturally, the Ambon version possesses unique characteristics that distinguish it from similar monuments in New Delhi or Geneva.

The choice of location in the heart of Ambon City holds urbanistic significance. This area is a nexus of public, governmental, and historical activities. Philosophically, the construction of this structure aims to "lock in" peace so that it is no longer shaken, making it a visual monolith that reminds every citizen of the precious value of brotherhood.

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Architectural Style and Design Principles

The architecture of the World Peace Gong adopts a contemporary-monumental style with a touch of universal symbolism. Its main structure consists of an open-air pavilion supported by robust pillars. This design prioritizes principles of transparency and accessibility, reflecting the open values of the Maluku people.

One of the most striking design elements is the use of tiered platforms. Visitors must ascend several steps to reach the gong's pedestal, an architectural metaphor symbolizing that peace is an achievement that requires effort and spiritual ascent. The pavilion's roof is designed with a modern structure that provides shelter without breaking the visual connection with the Ambon sky, creating a dramatic play of light and shadow on the gong's surface during the day.

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Structural Details and Unique Ornaments

The gong itself is the gravitational center of the entire complex. With a diameter of approximately 2 meters, this gong is made from a high-quality brass alloy coated in a shiny gold color. However, the true architectural uniqueness lies on the gong's surface.

The surface of the Ambon World Peace Gong is adorned with symbols from various major world religions, flags from 202 countries, and emblems from all regencies/cities in Indonesia. The placement of these emblems is done with precise engraving techniques, creating a rich texture on the metal surface. In the center of the gong, there is a world map symbolizing global unity.

The gong's supporting pillars are designed with a clean yet strong aesthetic. These supporting structures not only function mechanically to bear the heavy metal load but are also designed to harmonize with the aesthetics of the surrounding buildings. The use of natural stone materials on the ground floor provides a grounded feel, contrasting with the heavenly sheen of the gong's metal.

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Structural and Landscape Innovations

The World Peace Gong complex also includes integrated landscape design. Around the monument, there are neatly arranged gardens with wide pedestrian paths. The innovation in this area lies in the integration of green open spaces with the concrete monument. Artificial lighting at night is arranged to illuminate the gong from below (up-lighting), providing a majestic effect visible from afar, even from the harbor area.

Additionally, there are supporting elements in the form of a mini-museum at the base or around the monument that stores historical documentation of the peace journey in Maluku. The integration of public space, educational function, and memorial monument makes its design multifunctional—not just as a photo object, but as a space for urban contemplation.

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Cultural and Social Significance: "Pela Gandong" in Physical Form

Sociologically, the architecture of the World Peace Gong is a physical manifestation of the local wisdom of Pela Gandong. This structure acts as a neutral space where people from various ethnic and religious backgrounds can meet. In traditional Maluku architecture, shared spaces are very important, and this monument adopts that spirit into a more modern and universal form.

The existence of this gong also marks the transformation of Ambon City's image in the international eye. From a city once identified with conflict, it has become "Ambon City of Music" and a city of peace. The architecture of this monument has become a new visual identity that frequently appears in tourism literature and world peace studies.

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Visitor Experience and Current Usage

Visitors to the World Peace Gong will experience an atmospheric transition from the city's traffic noise to the tranquility of the monument area. The circulation design around the gong allows people to walk around the central object, providing an opportunity to observe the details of the flags and country symbols one by one.

Currently, this location serves as a primary tourist destination in Ambon City. Besides being a place for historical education for students, the surrounding area is often used for art and cultural activities. The vibration of the gong's sound (which is only played on special commemorative occasions) is considered to have a calming frequency, adding an auditory dimension to an architectural experience that is usually dominated by visual aspects.

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Conclusion: More Than Just Metal and Concrete

The World Peace Gong in Ambon is proof of how architecture can be used as a tool for reconciliation. Through a combination of durable materials, inclusive symbolism, and strategic urban placement, this structure successfully fulfills its function as a guardian of peace. It stands tall as a reminder that although buildings can be destroyed by conflict, the spirit of peace etched in the form of a monument will continue to inspire future generations to maintain harmony on the Earth of Kings.