Bandung Lautan Api | Documentary Film Erlangga 70th Anniversary

Summary

The script recounts the heroic history of Bandung, Indonesia, during its struggle for independence post-proclamation. Known as 'Bandung Lautan Api', it details the city's resistance against British-led Allied forces and the Dutch-backed NICA, who sought to regain control. The narrative unfolds with the ultimatum issued to divide Bandung, the fierce battles, and the strategic scorched earth policy adopted by Indonesian forces led by AH Nasution. The people's sacrifice and love for their homeland are highlighted as they burned their own homes and left the city to prevent it from being used by the Allies. The 'Bandung Lautan Api' monument stands as a testament to this brave resistance.

Takeaways

• 🏙️ Bandung, known as 'Kota Kembang', is famous for its natural beauty and cityscape.
• 🗓️ On March 24, 1946, the beauty of Bandung was overshadowed by a significant historical event.
• 🌏 Post-proclamation of independence, Indonesia faced challenges from powerful nations wanting to control it.
• 🛡️ October 12, 1945, British forces led by Brigadier General McDonald arrived in Bandung, supported by NICA, to repatriate Japanese soldiers.
• 🔥 The process of repatriation was disrupted by attacks from Indonesian freedom fighters, leading to armed conflicts.
• 🗡️ November 21, 1945, marked the attack on the British forces' headquarters at Hotel Savoy Homann and Hotel Priangan by Indonesian fighters.
• ⚔️ An ultimatum was issued on November 24, 1945, dividing Bandung into North and South to facilitate the repatriation process.
• 🛑 The Indonesian forces were ordered to withdraw from Bandung, which was seen as a strategic move by the Allies to control the city fully.
• 🏹 The Battle of Bojongkokosan on December 9-10, 1945, showcased a heroic stand by the people of Sukabumi against the British convoy.
• 📜 On March 23, 1946, another ultimatum was issued demanding the evacuation of Bandung North of all inhabitants and troops by midnight.
• 🔥 In response, AH Nasution ordered the 'burning of the land' strategy, setting buildings on fire to prevent their use by the Allies.

Q & A

What is the nickname 'Kota Kembang' associated with and why?

The nickname 'Kota Kembang' is associated with Bandung city, known for its beauty and regular events.

What significant event occurred on March 24, 1946, in Bandung?

On March 24, 1946, the beauty of Bandung was overshadowed by the conflict between Indonesian forces and the Allied forces, leading to the city being set on fire, known as 'Bandung Lautan Api' or 'Bandung Sea of Fire'.

Why did the Allied forces, led by Brigadier General McDonald, arrive in Bandung on October 12, 1945?

The Allied forces arrived in Bandung to repatriate Japanese soldiers and to free Dutch and European civilians from Japanese captivity.

What was the purpose of the Allied forces' ultimatum issued on November 24, 1945?

The ultimatum demanded the division of Bandung into two areas, Bandung Utara for the Dutch and Allies, and Bandung Selatan for the Indonesian people, to facilitate the release of prisoners.

Why did the Indonesian fighters attack the hotels Savoy Homann and Priangan on November 21, 1945?

The Indonesian fighters attacked the hotels because they were the headquarters of the Allied forces, and the fighters were frustrated by the continuous disturbances and armed conflicts caused by some of the released prisoners.

What was the significance of the Bojongkokosan battle on December 9-10, 1945?

The Bojongkokosan battle was significant as it showcased the Indonesian fighters' ability to defeat a large British convoy carrying logistical support for the Allied forces in Bandung, despite being outnumbered.

What ultimatum did Brigadier General McDonald issue to the Indonesian Prime Minister Sutan Syahrir on March 23, 1946?

The ultimatum demanded that Bandung Utara be cleared of inhabitants and troops by midnight on March 24, 1946, to prevent further bloodshed.

What decision did AH Nasution make in response to the ultimatum issued by Brigadier General McDonald?

AH Nasution decided that Indonesian inhabitants and troops would leave Bandung, and the city would be set on fire to prevent it from being used by the Allies.

Why was Bandung considered a strategic location by the Allies?

Bandung was considered strategic due to its central location on the island of Java, close to Jakarta and other major cities, and surrounded by high mountains that could serve as a natural fortress.

What did the people of Bandung do in response to the order to leave the city on March 24, 1946?

The people of Bandung secured what belongings they could carry, set fire to their own homes, and left the city, becoming refugees.

What is the significance of the 'Bandung Lautan Api' monument in Tegal Lega, Bandung?

The 'Bandung Lautan Api' monument commemorates the heroic resistance and sacrifices of the people of Bandung during the conflict with the Allied forces, symbolizing their love for their homeland.