Selamat Hari Sumpah Pemuda!

Sumpah Pemuda, which literally translates to “Youth Pledge” is one of the most important events in the history of Indonesia. Declared on October 28, 1928, it propels the youth movement towards Indonesia’s independence. The pledge says:

To celebrate this day, today’s blog post is going to be about my visit to Museum Sumpah Pemuda, Kramat, Jakarta.

As I have passed through Kramat area thousands of times before—no, I’m not exaggerating—the museum is very easy to find. From the University of Indonesia, simply walk straight through Jalan Kramat Raya until you find a colonial-style white building on your left hand side. The sign is in vertical direction and not too catchy, thus you’ll have keep an eye for it.

Thanks to free tickets from Starbucks Indonesia’s “Let’s Go to The Museum” programme, I don’t have to pay the admission fee. The fee is actually very affordable (around IDR 5k), so don’t hesitate to make a visit! The staffs and security are very friendly and helpful although I am such a cheapo use a free ticket. Kudos!

The condition of the museum… surprises me. Although it seems small and simple from the outside, the inside is pretty spacious and there are quite a bit of room to see. Some rooms still keep the traditional flooring (tegel kunci), and there are wax statues that represent historical figures who play a part in Sumpah Pemuda. All rooms in the front building are air-conditioned.

My favourite part is the congress room, where there are two huge marbles hanging on the wall: one has the Indonesian text of Sumpah Pemuda, and the other one has the notes and lyrics of the original version of Indonesia Raya. In front of this marble, there is a wax statue of W.R. Supratman, the composer of the national song.

Exit the front building through the back door, and there are some more rooms with exhibits on Pramuka (Indonesian scouts) and a small open space. I also spot a small cubicle that contains all the CCTV recordings. But, no one is inside. Ha!

The museum is undergoing renovation at some parts, so expect it to be a little dusty and somewhat messy. I’m sure it’s going to be all new and shiny in no time!

Museum Sumpah Pemuda

Address: Jalan Kramat Raya No. 106, Jakarta

Phone: (021) 3103217
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday 08:00 AM - 02:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday 08:00 AM - 03:00 PM. Closed every Monday.

Admission Fee: Not sure. Very affordable though, around IDR 5k.

Recommended Length of Visit: 60-90 minutes