Asia-Africa Conference Museum

Origin and History of the Building's Establishment

The building that now houses the Asia-Africa Conference Museum was originally named Sociëteit Concordia. Founded in 1895, this building initially served as a recreational and social gathering place for upper-class Europeans residing in Bandung, particularly plantation entrepreneurs (Preangerplanters) and colonial officials.

In 1921, the building underwent a major renovation by the renowned Dutch architect, C.P. Wolff Schoemaker, who infused it with a modern aesthetic for its time. During the Japanese occupation (1942–1945), the building was renamed Dai Toa Kaikan and used as a cultural center. After Indonesia gained independence, the building was repurposed as a headquarters for local youth to confront Allied forces, until it was officially designated as the venue for the Asia-Africa Conference (KAA) by President Soekarno in 1955.

Magnificent Art Deco Architecture

Architecturally, the Asia-Africa Conference Museum is one of the finest examples of the Art Deco style in Indonesia. C.P. Wolff Schoemaker designed the building emphasizing strong geometric lines, symmetrical structures, and the use of luxurious materials for its era, such as marble flooring imported directly from Italy.

The interior of the building is characterized by high ceilings for maximum air circulation, considering Bandung's tropical climate. The main hall, known as Gedung Merdeka, features a grand auditorium layout with iconic hanging decorative lamps. Natural light is provided through large windows surrounding the building, creating an impression of spaciousness and dignity. Renovations carried out in 1940 by designers from the AFAL architectural firm (Albert Aalbers) further strengthened the Streamline Moderne elements on the building's exterior facade, giving it a dynamic and futuristic feel.

Historical Significance: The 1955 Asia-Africa Conference

The most monumental event that took place at this site was the Asia-Africa Conference held from April 18 to 24, 1955. This conference was the first inter-developing nations meeting in world history that did not involve Western nations (neither the Western Bloc nor the Eastern Bloc). A total of 29 countries sent their delegates to discuss decolonization, world peace, and economic-cultural cooperation.

Within the main hall of this building, ten points of agreement known as the Dasasila Bandung were born. These principles emphasized respect for the sovereignty of all nations, racial equality, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The success of this conference triggered a wave of independence in dozens of African countries in the following decade, making Bandung the "Capital of Asia-Africa."

Important Figures and Global Role

This museum permanently commemorates the roles of great world figures. President Soekarno was the primary initiator, delivering a legendary opening speech titled "Let a New Asia and a New Africa be Born." Besides Soekarno, figures such as Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai, Gamal Abdel Nasser of Egypt, and U Nu of Myanmar were architects behind the success of this diplomacy.

Another unique historical aspect was the involvement of independence movement figures whose countries were not yet fully independent at the time, such as delegates from Sudan and Algeria. Their presence in Bandung provided international legitimacy for their respective nations' struggles for independence.

Museum Establishment and Conservation

The idea to designate a part of the Sociëteit Concordia building as a museum was conceived by Prof. Dr. Mochtar Kusumaatmadja, the then Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs. This desire arose because many Asian and African leaders visiting Bandung wanted to see this historic site. The Asia-Africa Conference Museum was finally inaugurated by President Soeharto on April 24, 1980, precisely on the 25th anniversary of the KAA.

As a historical site categorized as a national-level cultural heritage, strict preservation efforts are undertaken. The original building structure is maintained, including the original teak wooden chairs used by the delegates in 1955. The Indonesian government routinely conducts minor restorations to preserve the quality of the marble, wood, and sound systems within Gedung Merdeka without altering its original form.

Collections and Educational Value

This museum houses a very detailed collection of documentary photographs regarding the preparation and execution of the KAA. Visitors can see replicas of the negotiation tables, the typewriters used to draft the Dasasila Bandung, and the original flags of the participating countries. One of the most iconic spots is the diorama depicting the atmosphere of the conference opening, complete with wax figures of the national leaders.

In addition to being a repository for artifacts, MKAA also functions as a research center through its Museum Library, which holds thousands of literature on the history, politics, and culture of Asian and African countries. The museum actively serves as a space for discussion for the younger generation through various educational programs such as the "Museum Friends Club."

Cultural Meaning and World Heritage

The Asia-Africa Conference Museum belongs not only to the people of Bandung or Indonesia but to the world. In 2015, the documentary archives of the Asia-Africa Conference were officially designated by UNESCO as Memory of the World. This confirms that the values born from this building on Jalan Asia Afrika are universal and eternal.

Culturally, this museum is a meeting point of civilizations. It proves that differences in religion, culture, and race are not obstacles to achieving a common goal, which is peace. The existence of this museum continues to remind the world that the soft diplomacy that began in a cool city in West Java was able to change the course of human history towards a more just and equitable world.