Remembering Nov. 10, 1945

Remembering Nov. 10, 1945

From Merdeka

With the blessing of God the almighty, we celebrated the 52nd anniversary of the proclamation of Indonesia's independence last Aug. 17. We are now in November, a month that is historically significant to the Indonesian nation. The following is a brief description of this historic significance:

On Nov. 9, 1945, the commander-in-chief of the Allied Forces, without negotiating with the Indonesian government, issued an ultimatum to the residents of Surabaya. The ultimatum stated: "All Indonesian leaders, including leaders of youth movements, the police chief and the head of the Surabaya radio station, must report to Bataviaweg at 6:00 p.m. on Nov. 9. They must come one by one, bringing with them the weapons at their disposal. These weapons must be put in a place 100 yards from the meeting place. Then they must approach, hands over head. In this way they will be protected. They must be prepared to sign a letter stating that they surrender unconditionally."

Obviously the Indonesian people in Surabaya simply ignored this ultimatum. So early in the morning on Saturday, Nov. 10, 1945, when the ultimatum had expired, Surabaya and its surrounding areas were attacked by a British-commanded Indian division numbering some 15,000 troops from the land, sea and air. Thousands of Indonesians, combatants and civilian alike, who were simply common, innocent people, died a tragic death in the subsequent battle fought around Surabaya's port.

Kalimas River flowed red with blood for days. The battle between these unequal forces raged on until December 1945. In memory of the heroism of Surabaya's residents, which reflected the fighting spirit and determination of the entire Indonesian nation, the government has stipulated Nov. 10 as Heroes' Day.

In connection with Heroes' Day, allow us, the management of Indah Sari Kroncong Music Orchestra, to suggest that all kroncong music groups throughout the country observe Heroes' Day by playing heroic songs in praise of the heroes either at public stages or at their own rehearsal places.

Such songs as Rayuan Pulau Kelapa (The Lure of the Island of Coconuts), Sepasang Mata Bola (A Pair of Round Eyes), Selendang Sutera (Silk Shawl), Lambaian Merah Putih (Fluttering of Red and White), and Baktimu Kartini (Your dedication, Kartini) will arouse the heroic spirit when solemnly and devotedly sung. In this way, we would show a stronger determination to dedicate ourselves to our country and people.

IBNU SLAMET HADISUSENO

Jakarta