Bandung

Bandung, now a bustling metropolis and a hub of culture and education in Indonesia, was founded on March 25, 1810, by the Dutch colonial authorities as they established new settlements in Java. Over the years, Bandung has evolved from a plantation economy into a major urban area, known for its historical landmarks, technological institutes, and the role it has played in Indonesia's modern history and international diplomacy.

The Institute of Technology Bandung (ITB) was established on October 1, 1920, originally as a branch of the Faculty of Engineering of Delft University. ITB has grown into one of Indonesia's top universities, renowned for excellence in education and research, particularly in engineering and technology fields. ITB has produced countless influential graduates and continues to impact Indonesia's scientific and technological advancements significantly.

The Bandung Sea of Fire (Bandung Lautan Api) was a significant event in the Indonesian National Revolution, where much of the southern side of Bandung was deliberately burned down by its residents on March 24, 1946. This was part of a strategy to prevent Allied Dutch troops from using the area as a tactical military base. The dramatic act of scorched earth was an expression of resistance and symbolized the determination and sacrifice of the Indonesian people in their fight for independence.

On December 27, 1949, a crucial step in Bandung's history was celebrated as Indonesia officially received sovereignty from the Dutch, formally ending the Indonesian National Revolution. The event marked the acknowledgment of Indonesia's independence, initially proclaimed in 1945, and was part of a series of political negotiations and international agreements culminating in complete national sovereignty.

The Asia-Africa Conference, also known as the Bandung Conference, took place from April 18 to April 24, 1955, in Bandung, Indonesia. This historic meeting brought together representatives from 29 countries in Asia and Africa, marking the first time these nations convened to discuss mutual concerns and cooperation independent of any major power influences. The conference resulted in a communique outlining ten principles promoting world peace and cooperation, which would later influence the Non-Aligned Movement.

The first instance of a BIPV (Blood Injection and Pressure Valve) surgery in Indonesia took place in Bandung in 1964. This pioneering event was a significant breakthrough in medical sciences within the region, marking Bandung as a center for medical advancement in Indonesia. The procedure showcased the skill and innovation of Indonesian doctors and laid the groundwork for future technical developments in cardiovascular surgery.

The Gedung Merdeka Building, where the historic Asia-Africa Conference took place in 1955, was officially opened as an Asia-Africa Conference Museum on January 2, 1980. This museum serves to preserve the memory of the conference and the solidarity among the new independent nations of Asia and Africa. Visitors to the museum can view exhibits and artifacts from the conference, providing insight into the pivotal moments of decolonization and cooperation across these regions.

In response to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Bandung became a crucial coordination center for disaster relief and aid distribution. Various international and national agencies set up operations in Bandung to streamline the logistics of relief efforts across western Sumatra and other affected areas. This role not only enhanced Bandung’s reputation as a strategic location for disaster response but also demonstrated its capability to support large-scale humanitarian operations effectively.

In 2005, Bandung commemorated the 50th anniversary of the first Asia-Africa Conference, held in the same city in 1955. This event, often called the Golden Jubilee of the Bandung Conference, involved leaders and representatives from various Asian and African countries. The celebration included discussions on the Bandung Conference's legacy and future collaborations between the two continents, emphasizing the continued relevance of the original conference's objectives in promoting peace and development.

In 2017, Bandung's innovative approach to improving urban life was recognized with an award from the Bloomberg Mayor's Challenge. The city won for its initiative to implement a real-time data-driven system for traffic management and public service delivery, making it one of the first cities in Indonesia to use such technology. The award highlights Bandung's progressiveness and commitment to enhancing residents' quality of life through smart city solutions and effective governance.