Building designed by Bung Karno

Building designed by Bung Karno

From Pikiran Rakyat

I am disappointed at reports published in the city's
newspapers saying that the building on Jl. Gatot Subroto in
Bandung, that was designed by Bung Karno, has been demolished. We
know that as a civil engineer, Bung Karno (the first President of
Indonesia) had not done much in terms civil engineering. But we
must appreciate his struggle for the country's independence by
preserving the building he has designed.

It seems to me that business has outweighed the importance of
cultural heritage. Everything that stands in the way of business
must be crushed.

Do we forget that Bung Karno took the initiative to hold the
Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung in 1955? It is in this frame of
mind, and in remembrance of Bung Karno's works, that we should
preserve the buildings which have historical significance.

FACHRIZAL AZHAR

Bandung, West Java