Asia Africa Conference Museum

Asia Africa Conference Museum: A Monument to Global Diplomacy in the Heart of Bandung

Museum Konperensi Asia Afrika (MKAA) is more than just an old building on the corner of Jalan Asia Afrika and Jalan Braga in Bandung City. It is a symbol of the awakening of colonized nations and the cornerstone of the birth of the third world's power. As part of the Gedung Merdeka complex, this museum holds the collective memory of the courage of Asian and African nations to determine their own destinies amidst the turmoil of the Cold War.

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Origins of the Building and Functional Transformation

Before being known as a historic site for international diplomacy, the building that houses this museum has a long history that began during the Dutch colonial era. First built in 1895, the building was originally named Sociëteit Concordia. At that time, it served as a recreational and social venue for the Dutch elite in Bandung, especially plantation entrepreneurs (Preanger Planters) and military officials.

In 1921, the building underwent a major renovation by renowned architect C.P. Wolff Schoemaker. Later, in 1940, the front of the building was renovated again in a more modern style by architect A.F. Aalbers. During the Japanese occupation (1942–1945), the building was renamed Dai Toa Kaikan and used as a cultural center. After Indonesia's independence, the building was renamed Gedung Merdeka and designated by President Soekarno as the venue for the legendary international conference.

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Magnificent Art Deco Architecture

Architecturally, the Asia Africa Conference Museum is one of the finest examples of the Art Deco style in Indonesia. This style is clearly evident from its sharp geometric lines, symmetrical building form, and the use of luxurious materials for its time. The museum's interior is dominated by Italian marble floors, giving a cool yet elegant impression, and crystal chandeliers that add to the grandeur of the main hall.

One of the unique features of the building's architecture is its large windows and ventilation, designed to suit Bandung's cool tropical climate. The sturdy building structure with thick walls reflects its original function as an exclusive meeting place. Restorations carried out over the years have preserved the original details, including the teak wood chairs and the layout of the conference room used by the delegates in 1955.

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Historic Event: The 1955 Asia Africa Conference

The main historical significance of this site is the hosting of the Asia Africa Conference (KAA) from April 18 to 24, 1955. This was the first time in world history that newly independent nations from colonial rule on two continents gathered to foster unity. The conference was attended by 29 countries representing more than half of the world's population at that time.

The KAA produced the "Bandung Ten Principles," a ten-point statement on support for world peace and cooperation, which included respect for human rights and the sovereignty of all nations. This event became an inspiration for independence movements across the African continent and was the precursor to the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in 1961. Inside the museum, visitors can see dioramas depicting the atmosphere of the conference, complete with the flags of the participating countries and the typewriters used to draft the declaration.

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Key Figures Behind the Scenes

The existence of the Asia Africa Conference Museum is inseparable from the role of world leaders. President Soekarno was the main initiator who wanted to show the world that Bandung was the "Capital of Asia-Africa." Besides Soekarno, figures such as Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai, Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt, and U Nu of Burma (Myanmar) are individuals whose voices echoed in this hall.

The idea to establish this museum itself was conceived by Prof. Dr. Mochtar Kusumaatmadja, the then Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs, leading up to the 25th anniversary of the KAA in 1980. He recognized the importance of a permanent institution to preserve the spirit of Bandung for future generations. The museum was then inaugurated by President Soeharto on April 24, 1980.

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Preservation and Restoration Efforts

As a protected Historical Site, the Asia Africa Conference Museum is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia in cooperation with the Provincial Government of West Java. Conservation efforts are continuously carried out periodically to maintain the structural integrity of the building from damage due to age and weather.

The last major restoration was carried out leading up to the 60th anniversary of the KAA in 2015. This process included improvements to lighting, digitization of historical archives, and rearrangement of exhibition spaces to be more interactive. Although it has undergone modernization in terms of educational facilities, the authenticity of physical elements such as the main stage in the conference room has been strictly maintained according to its original condition in 1955.

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Cultural and Educational Significance

The Asia Africa Conference Museum is not just a historical tourist destination, but also a center for study and diplomacy. Inside, there is a library that houses a collection of rare books on the history of diplomacy, international politics, and the cultures of Asian and African countries. The museum regularly organizes seminars, photo exhibitions, and "Museum Friends" programs to engage local and international communities.

For the people of Bandung and Indonesia, this museum is a symbol of national pride. It reminds us that Indonesia was once a central player on the world's political map, capable of uniting nations with different cultural and religious backgrounds for a single goal: independence and peace. The presence of this museum in the heart of Bandung also strengthens the city's identity as a historic city with an enduring global influence.

To this day, the Asia Africa Conference Museum stands tall as a silent witness to the struggle of diplomacy. Through its quiet yet meaningful corridors, the spirit of "The Spirit of Bandung" continues to be conveyed to every visitor, reminding us that cooperation and solidarity among nations are the key to facing increasingly complex challenges of the era.