Linggarjati Negotiation Building

Silent Witness to Diplomatic Struggle: Linggarjati Negotiation Building

Gedung Perundingan Linggarjati is more than just an old building standing strong at the foot of Mount Ciremai. Located in Linggarjati Village, Cilimus District, Kuningan Regency, West Java, this building is a monument to diplomacy that changed the course of the Indonesian Republic's independence. Behind its colonial-style architecture lies a long narrative of a nation's struggle, fought not only with weapons but also with sharp intellect and negotiation tables.

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Origin and Transformation of the Building

The building, now known as the Linggarjati Museum, has a long and dynamic ownership history before finally becoming a witness to international agreements. Initially, around 1918, this building was just a simple hut belonging to Ibu Tertibi. However, in 1921, a Dutch national named Tersana renovated the building into a semi-permanent structure.

A major transformation occurred between 1930 and 1935 when the building was purchased by the Van Os family. They completely renovated the structure into a permanent residence in the Indische Empire Style. This style was very popular during the colonial era, characterized by high ceilings, large windows for good air circulation in tropical regions, and tiled floors that gave a cool impression. Before the outbreak of World War II, the building was briefly used as Hotel Rustoord (1935-1942), a luxurious resting place for Dutch officials who wanted to enjoy the cool air of Kuningan.

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Crucial Role in Indonesian History

The peak of this building's historical significance occurred from November 11 to 13, 1946. After the proclamation of independence, Indonesia still had to fight for international recognition of its sovereignty, especially from the Dutch who wanted to regain power. The choice of Linggarjati as the negotiation site was not without reason. This location was considered a neutral territory with a cool climate, which was hoped to calm the emotions of the negotiators amidst the heated political tension.

In these negotiations, the Indonesian delegation was led by Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir, accompanied by prominent figures such as Mohammad Roem, Susanto Tirtoprojo, and A.K. Gani. Meanwhile, the Dutch delegation was led by Prof. Schermerhorn with members Max van Poll, F. de Boer, and H.J. van Mook. Lord Killearn from Britain was present as a mediator.

The result of the meeting in this building was the Linggarjati Agreement text, consisting of 17 articles. One of the most crucial points was the Dutch de facto recognition of the Indonesian Republic's territory, which included Java, Madura, and Sumatra. Although the outcome of these negotiations sparked pros and cons domestically because it was considered to limit Indonesia's territory, diplomatically, Linggarjati was the gateway to Indonesia's recognition of sovereignty in the eyes of the world.

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Architectural Uniqueness and Construction Details

Architecturally, Gedung Perundingan Linggarjati reflects the adaptation of European buildings to the West Javanese mountain climate. The building stands on approximately 2.4 hectares of land with a main building area of 1,000 square meters. The main characteristics that can still be observed today are the use of natural stone for the foundation and the lower parts of the walls, which give a sturdy impression and blend with the surrounding nature.

Large windows with wooden louvers dominate the building's facade, allowing natural light to enter while keeping the room temperature stable. Inside the building, the layout is still maintained according to its condition in 1946. There is a spacious main living room that was once used as the main sidang room, the delegates' bedrooms, and a back veranda that directly faces Mount Ciremai. Another unique feature is the presence of replica furniture that is very similar to the originals, from rattan chairs to the long wooden table where the agreement text was placed.

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Conservation Efforts and Museum Status

After the physical revolution period, the building was repurposed as a Dutch military headquarters, an elementary school, and eventually fell into disrepair. Realizing its invaluable historical significance, the Indonesian government began serious conservation efforts in the 1970s. At the initiative of figures involved in the negotiations, the building was restored and inaugurated as the Linggarjati Memorial Museum by President Soeharto in 1976.

Currently, the building's status is a National Cultural Heritage. The Kuningan Regency government, along with the Cultural Preservation Center, continues to carry out routine maintenance without altering the original structure of the building. The interior of the museum is now equipped with dioramas, black and white documentary photos depicting the negotiation atmosphere, and original relics such as the bed used by Sutan Sjahrir.

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Cultural and Educational Significance

For the people of Kuningan and Indonesia in general, Gedung Perundingan Linggarjati is a symbol of diplomatic victory. This site teaches that independence is not only achieved through bloodshed on the battlefield but also through intellectual intelligence and resilience at the negotiation table.

Every year, this building becomes a major historical tourism destination. Besides its function as a museum, the surrounding lush environment with old trees makes it an educational public space. This site reminds younger generations of the importance of consensus and dialogue in resolving national conflicts. The presence of this building at the foot of Mount Ciremai also creates harmony between human history and natural grandeur, making it one of the most iconic historical sites in West Java that must be preserved for the identity of the Indonesian nation.