KDM Urges Sumedang Residents to Take Pride in Local Potential

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the people of Sumedang to take pride in the potential of their region. He stated that Sumedang boasts a long history, beginning with the Kingdom of Tembong Agung founded by Prabu Aji Putih, which later transformed into the Kingdom of Sumedang Larang under Prabu Tadjimalela. This kingdom is recognised as the legitimate successor to the glory of the last Sunda kingdom, Pajajaran. Additionally, Sumedang possesses spiritual arts capable of fostering individuals who understand themselves. “The people of Sumedang created tofu, giving birth to Sumedang tofu; they created Cilembu, resulting in Cilembu sweet potatoes,” said KDM, as Dedi Mulyadi is known, during the Kasumedangan Cultural Ecosystem event as part of Sumedang’s 448th anniversary celebrations, in front of the Sumedang Regency State Building on Friday (24/4/2026). KDM called on the people of Sumedang to elevate their status without relying on handouts from others. “The people of Sumedang are not beggars, but a community with dignity, honour, and self-respect,” said KDM. He hopes that leaders in Sumedang will provide justice and care for their struggling citizens. “Leaders should not be selective; they must be fair, use empathy and intuition, and be strong,” he stated. KDM also urged all Sumedang residents to drive change if they desire fair leaders and a respected populace. “We should not be a nation of beggars, but a people with leadership, personality, and the attitude of warriors,” said KDM. KDM advised all Sumedang residents, from leaders to the public, to take pride in and promote what they have to those outside Sumedang. “Build a good brand, promote its beautiful nature, mountains, and rice fields. Convey that Sumedang is great. Arrange and improve it. Maintain the roads, clean up the rubbish,” said KDM.