PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - City development is not only carried out through physical development, but must also be strengthened by knowledge, creativity, criticism, and the voice of the community.

Therefore, the government should not only focus on the physical appearance of the city, but must understand the problem down to its roots.

"We have to build something more than just makeup. Because once makeup isn't touched up, it will fall off. That's what's been happening all this time," said Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan at the opening of the Bandung City Milestone Exhibition #3 at the Asia Afrika Microlibrary on Monday (October 5, 2026).

He gave an example of city development that not only repairs the surface, but also pays attention to fundamental problems.

According to him, this approach is necessary so that development can provide sustainable benefits for the community.

Farhan also highlighted the importance of healthy and suitable public open spaces amidst limited land and dense residential areas.

Public spaces, he said, are not only related to comfort, but also have a connection to health and social interaction in society.

"Lush greenery, pleasant city parks, clean rivers, and public spaces built as centers for social interaction among residents. Today, all of that remains a dream. It hasn't yet come true," he said.

It is worth noting that this exhibition, entitled "The Spirit of Bandung, the Flower City that Never Withers," is a space to reintroduce the history, development of parks, and various stories that shape the identity of the City of Bandung.

"Literacy is crucial. We must truly listen to the voice of the public. To hear a clear voice, academics must speak with clarity," said Farhan.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Bandung City Archives and Library Service, Dewi Kania Sari, in her report stated that the Milestone Exhibition is an annual event that will begin in 2025.

In 2026, the activity was expanded to twice a year in response to the high public enthusiasm for historical education in Bandung City.

In this third event, the theme raised was "The Spirit of Bandung, the Flower City that Never Fades".

The exhibition showcases the history of parks in Bandung City, from the colonial era to the current conditions, while also educating the public about the toponymy of various parks in Bandung City.

Dewi explained that the exhibition was initially planned to last for two weeks until October 18, 2026.

However, if public enthusiasm is high, the implementation period will be extended to three weeks.

This exhibition also involves various parties, ranging from universities, communities, academics, to creative actors.

The collaboration presents research and works on parks, architecture, the environment, public spaces, and even 3D scanning technology for parks in Bandung City. (Bandung City Communications and Information Service/rka)