West Java Secretary Explains Reason for Demolishing Library at Gasibu Field

The West Java Provincial Government has demolished a library located within the Gasibu Field area in Bandung. Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman explained that the demolition was carried out as part of an adaptation process to reorganise Gasibu Field and integrate it with the grounds of Gedung Sate, the governor’s office. “The demolition of the library and the redevelopment of Gasibu Field are efforts to promote harmony between natural and man-made elements. The goal is to make Gasibu Field more orderly, more functional, and more beautiful,” he stated on Sunday (12/7). The Gasibu Library was built during the tenure of former Governor Ahmad Heryawan and was inaugurated in 2016. Herman confirmed that the administrative process for demolishing the library, or the removal of government property, had already been completed. He also assured that the provincial government remains committed to providing literacy facilities. As a replacement, the library will be transformed into a digital library. “Meanwhile, for members of the public who require physical reading materials, a mobile library will be provided,” he emphasised. He added that Gasibu Field will be integrated with Gedung Sate, while the public will continue to receive literacy services. The redevelopment and integration project for the front courtyard of Gedung Sate and Gasibu Field was initiated by Governor Dedi Mulyadi. The project was initially allocated a budget of around Rp15 billion to Rp15.82 billion from the 2026 regional budget, but after the tender process, the contract value was set at Rp12 billion. Through this redevelopment, the provincial government aims to unify and integrate the plaza in front of Gedung Sate with the Gasibu Field area into a single public space. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion, improve accessibility, and restore the dignity of the government centre. As part of efforts to tackle congestion, the project will prevent the total closure of Jalan Diponegoro in front of Gedung Sate during protests or major events. Traffic flow management will involve redirecting vehicles to the front area to ensure smooth movement. In terms of landscape integration, the project will level the surface of Gasibu Field and the Gedung Sate courtyard to create a unified and open appearance. The overarching goal is to provide a more spacious and well-organised area for residents to conduct activities without obstructing public access. The expected outcome of the project is the unification of the front courtyard of Gedung Sate with Gasibu Field. The project will close the section of Jalan Diponegoro in front of Gedung Sate to vehicles, transforming it into a pedestrian zone and a fully public space. Additionally, the asphalt road surface will be replaced with andesite stone to enhance the area’s aesthetics.