The Five-Day Battle in Semarang was one of the battles fought to defend the independence of the Republic of Indonesia. In October 1945, to commemorate the sacrifices of the people during the Five-Day Battle, a monument was built in the central square of Semarang. The second Governor of Central Java, Wongsonegoro, laid the first stone for the monument, named Tugu Muda, on October 28, 1945. However, this monument did not stand for long, as it was dismantled by Dutch soldiers associated with NICA (Nederlandsch Indië Civil Administratie) and RAPWI (Rehabilitation of Allied Prisoners of War and Internees).
The reconstruction of Tugu Muda began in 1950. Initiated by former members of the youth organization, including Martadi, Suroso, A. Djaja, Suwarno, Tjipto, Salim, and Colonel Sudiarto, a committee was formed to prepare for the construction of a new Tugu Muda. However, this committee was later reorganized and led by Semarang’s third Mayor, RM. Hadisoebeno Sosrowerdoyo. The new monument was constructed at the Simpang Lima intersection, in front of the Diponegoro Division headquarters. Construction began in May 1952, with the first stone laid by the third Governor of Central Java, R. Boedijono.
Initially, the new Tugu Muda was planned to cost IDR 30,000. However, rising material costs and other factors increased the budget to IDR 300,000. The funds for its construction were raised through public contributions from the people of Semarang. The new Tugu Muda was officially inaugurated on National Awakening Day, May 20, 1953, by President Soekarno at precisely 9:25 AM.
The cultural heritage structure of Tugu Muda is located near the Lawang Sewu Heritage Building and the Mandala Bhakti Museum. It sits at the crossroads of Jalan Imam Bonjol, Jalan Pemuda, Jalan Pandanaran, and Jalan Mgr. Sugiyapranata. At a glance, Tugu Muda resembles a candle, with its top shaped like a flame.
The flame symbolizes the unyielding spirit to defend Indonesia's independence. The middle section resembles a pointed bamboo stick, representing the weapon used by freedom fighters to defend independence. This pointed bamboo is upright and features five stalks, symbolizing the Five-Day Battle that occurred in Semarang from October 15 to 19, 1945.
Beneath the bamboo section are five stones engraved with the symbols of the five principles of Pancasila: the star, chain, banyan tree, bull’s head, and rice and cotton. Below these engravings are five supports adorned with various carvings, including:
Hongerodeem (Starvation)
Sculpted by artist Edhi Sunarso, this carving depicts the suffering of the Indonesian people under Dutch and Japanese occupation, where starvation and malnutrition were rampant.The Battle Sculpture
Carved by Joeski from Aceh, this sculpture represents the fighting spirit and bravery of Semarang’s youth during the Five-Day Battle.The Assault Sculpture
Sculpted by Bakri, also from Aceh, this carving portrays the resistance of the Indonesian people against oppressors trying to thwart their efforts for freedom.The Victim Sculpture
Carved by Nasir Bondan from Banten, this sculpture depicts the sacrifices made by the people during the Five-Day Battle.The Victory Sculpture
Sculpted by Djony Trisno from Salatiga, this carving represents the fruits of the struggles and sacrifices that took place in Semarang.
Additional carvings were created by Roestamadji.
