PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - At 216 years old, Bandung continues to solidify its identity as a world-class creative city. Armed with a long history, strong culture, community creativity, and a spirit of collaboration, Bandung is believed to have significant potential to continue developing as one of the most dynamic cities in Indonesia.

This was conveyed by the Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, when leading the Commemoration Ceremony for the 216th Anniversary of the City of Bandung at the Bandung City Hall Plaza, Friday (25/9/2026).

According to Farhan, this year's HJKB theme, "Solidarity in Harmony," was deliberately chosen to emphasize Bandung's position as an international city with an important historical heritage for the world.

"We deliberately chose an English theme to convey the impression that Bandung is an international city," he said.

Farhan reminded us that Bandung has a long and distinguished history. Since its official founding in 1810, Bandung has developed into the Paris of Java, played a vital role in the nation's struggle through the Bandung Sea of Fire incident in 1946, and even hosted the Asia-Africa Conference in 1955.

According to him, the spirit of solidarity born from the Asia Africa Conference is still relevant today and is the foundation for the development of the city of Bandung.

"The Spirit of Bandung became the basis for solidarity between nations that were emerging from the wounds of colonialism," he said.

This spirit then developed into a collaborative energy involving the government, communities, academics, business actors, artists, and the younger generation in building the city.

Farhan believes that Bandung's main strength currently lies in its growing and developing creative ecosystem across various sectors.

Various cultural, artistic, sports, creative economy, technology, and innovation activities continue to enliven various iconic areas of the city such as Jalan Braga, Jalan Asia Afrika, and the Cikapundung River area.

"The presence of spaces that allow for solidarity gatherings has made Bandung a vibrant city and attracted the attention of many people," he said.

Not only known as a city of tourism and education, Bandung is now also developing as a center of innovation and creative economy that is a magnet for the young generation and creative entrepreneurs.

According to Farhan, this excellence must be maintained through development that is open to new ideas, cross-sector collaboration, and strengthening local cultural identity.

He emphasized that Bandung must not lose its character amidst the changing times. Instead, culture, history, and creativity must be its primary strengths in facing global competition.

"Bandung must continue to strengthen its identity as a developed, world-class, friendly, and sustainable city," he said.

On the 216th HJKB momentum, Farhan invited the entire community to continue to maintain the spirit of togetherness in building the city.

For him, Bandung's strength lies not only in its infrastructure and physical development, but also in the solidarity of its citizens, which has been the spirit of the city's journey.

With its strong history, creativity, and collaboration, Bandung is believed to be capable of continuing its journey as a world-class creative city rooted in local values and a spirit of togetherness. (Bandung City Communications and Information Office/rka)