Indonesia to Publish Comprehensive History Book on Independence Struggle: Culture Minister

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Culture Minister Fadli Zon has announced plans to prepare a comprehensive history book documenting the nation’s struggle to defend its independence from 1945 to 1949, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving historical memory for future generations.

Speaking during a talk show on Saturday, Zon said the book will focus on what the Dutch refer to as the “revolutionary period,” which Indonesia defines as the war to defend independence. The publication will cover key events from the proclamation of independence through to Dutch recognition of sovereignty.

“This year, we also plan to write a history book on an important period, namely what the Dutch call the revolutionary period, but which we describe as the war to defend independence, covering 1945 to 1949,” Zon said.

He explained that the historical account will include pivotal developments such as the proclamation of independence, the Dutch acknowledgment of Indonesia’s sovereignty, the formation of the United States of Indonesia, and the subsequent dissolution of the federal state that led to the establishment of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

Zon stressed the importance of presenting history in a comprehensive and balanced manner, noting that the book will encompass diplomatic, political, and military dimensions of the independence struggle.

“This needs to be written comprehensively, covering diplomatic, political, and military events that are essential for future generations,” he said.

The culture minister also revealed that the Ministry of Culture has completed the compilation of a separate volume titled “Indonesian History: National Dynamics in Global Currents.” The book, launched on December 14, 2025, involved contributions from 134 historians representing 34 universities across the country.

Highlighting the role of the History Directorate within the ministry, Zon said it plays a central part in national history-writing initiatives. He encouraged the directorate to continue compiling historical works on major kingdoms in the archipelago, including Sriwijaya, Majapahit, and Padjajaran.

“Many people say history is important and should not be forgotten, but sometimes we do not write history,” Zon said.

He added that the forthcoming books are expected to stimulate public discussion and remain open to academic debate.

“None may be perfect, but that is exactly why those debates and that dialectic are important,” he said.