Keep traditional architecture

Keep traditional architecture

I read with interest your article in The Jakarta Post, March 18, 1995. Regard for our language.

I am an English speaking expatriate architect and find it hard to believe the reverse parochialism shown in Indonesia. Not only do most real estate developers name their developments using English names, they construct European-style buildings totally inappropriate for a tropical climate.

Why do they do this? Indonesia, like the rest of Asia has a very rich architectural tradition suited to the climate and to the building materials available. What is the desire to emulate all things Western. Do most Indonesians really believe that all things Western are so fantastic that they represent prestige? (Just try western fast food. Need I say more).

As an architect I have seen traditional buildings that have exited and moved me. I have yet to see a European-inspired real estate development that is even worth a second look.

Indonesia is different, please try not only to keep that difference but use it, preserve it and be proud of it, borrow from the West but be selective.

Those people and organizations trying to maintain the position of the Indonesian language in this society deserve to be congratulated. Respect of one's own culture will further mutual respect between different cultures.

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