Multatuli Museum

Historical Origins and Establishment

The establishment of the Multatuli Museum is deeply rooted in 19th-century history, specifically when Eduard Douwes Dekker was appointed Assistant Resident of Lebak in January 1856. Although he served for only about three months, this brief experience gave birth to a world literary masterpiece titled Max Havelaar: Of de koffi-veilingen der Nederlandsche Handel-Maatschappij (Max Havelaar: Or the Coffee Auctions of the Dutch Trading Company).

The Lebak Regency Government initiated the construction of this museum as a form of respect for local history that had a global impact. The chosen location is the former office building and official residence of the Wedana of Lebak, built around 1923. This building was selected for its high historical value and its geographical proximity to Multatuli's original official residence, which now only consists of ruins in the area of Adjidarmo Regional General Hospital (RSUD).

Architecture and Construction Details

Multatuli Museum occupies a cultural heritage building in the Indische Empire Style colonial architectural style. Its architectural characteristics are evident in the high ceilings, large windows for optimal air circulation, and sturdy pillars supporting the building's structure. Renovations carried out before its inauguration maintained the authenticity of the wooden structure and ancient tiles to preserve the 20th-century atmosphere.

The museum is divided into seven exhibition rooms arranged chronologically based on the narrative "History of Colonialism in Indonesia." The interior design combines classic aesthetics with modern technological touches, such as the use of multimedia installations and dramatic lighting. One of the most prominent architectural elements is the art installation at the front, featuring iconic quotes from the book Max Havelaar, reinforcing the building's identity as a museum of literature and history.

Historical Significance and Key Events

The significance of the Multatuli Museum lies in Douwes Dekker's courage in exposing the corruption of the Cultivation System (Cultuurstelsel) and the abuse of power by local officials supported by the Dutch colonial government. In Lebak, Dekker witnessed how the people were exploited not only by the colonizers but also by their own regents through illegal levies and excessive forced labor.

Through this museum, visitors can learn how Dekker's letters of complaint to his superior, Brest van Kempen, became a turning point in his career. His refusal to compromise with corruption led to his resignation, but from that resignation emerged a writing that Pramoedya Ananta Toer called "the book that killed colonialism." Crucial events such as the conflict between Dekker and the Regent of Lebak at the time, Raden Adipati Karta Natanegara, are explained in detail through the archival documents on display.

Key Figures and Era Connections

Besides Multatuli, the museum also highlights other important figures connected to the history of Banten and the national movement. Names like Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa are featured to provide context for Banten's resistance against the VOC long before Multatuli's era. Additionally, there is a narrative about local Lebak figures in the Geger Cilegon 1888 event, which was also influenced by the socio-economic conditions depicted in the book Max Havelaar.

The presence of this museum also connects the colonial era with the figures of independence. Sukarno, for instance, was known to greatly admire Multatuli's work and often quoted him in his political speeches to ignite the spirit of anti-imperialism. The museum successfully draws a red line between the suffering of the people in the 19th century and the spirit of independence in the 20th century.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

The Lebak Regency Government, along with historical curators, has undertaken meticulous restoration efforts. As the building used is a cultural heritage site, any changes must adhere to strict preservation guidelines. The restoration process involved cleaning original teak wood elements, repairing the roof without altering its original form, and landscaping the area around the museum to harmonize with the historic Rangkasbitung town plan.

In addition to the physical building, preservation also extends to artifacts and documents. The museum houses replicas of Multatuli's original letters, first editions of the book Max Havelaar in various languages, and ethnographic objects of the Baduy community, which are an integral part of Lebak's cultural identity. Cooperation with archival institutions in the Netherlands (such as the Multatuli Genootschap) allows the museum access to accurate historical data.

Cultural Value and Unique Facts

Culturally, the Multatuli Museum serves as a center for literacy and education for the people of Banten. It breaks the stigma that museums are boring places. One unique fact about this museum is the presence of original tiles from Multatuli's official residence that were successfully salvaged and are now on display. These tiles are silent witnesses to the author's presence in Lebak.

Furthermore, the museum features statues of Multatuli, Saidjah, and Adinda created by a renowned sculptor. Saidjah and Adinda are fictional characters in the book Max Havelaar who represent the suffering of the common people of Lebak; their tragic story has become part of the world's collective memory and has been translated into dozens of languages.

Multatuli Museum is not merely a repository of inanimate objects, but a space for dialectics. It invites visitors to reflect on the meaning of justice and humanity. Standing tall in the heart of Rangkasbitung, this museum ensures that the voices of the Lebak people, once silenced by colonialism, will continue to be heard by future generations through the pages of history carefully preserved with respect.