Tracing Malang’s Colonial Past: A Historian Reveals the City’s ‘Broken Chain’ of Heritage

Malang, East Java – Urban historian Reza Hudiyanto likens studying Malang’s past to "exploring another planet," emphasizing the city’s dramatic transformation since its colonial heyday. During a research presentation at Gramedia Basuki Rahmat on Sunday (27/4/2025), Reza unveiled findings that piece together Malang’s fragmented historical narrative.  

source: suarajatimpost

Over a century ago, Malang bore little resemblance to its modern form. Remnants of its colonial identity survive in architecture, written records, photographs, and folklore—yet Reza laments a "missing link" in its historical continuity.  

"Malang has a long but disjointed history. There are broken chains, gaps in its timeline," he explained.  

Malang’s urban roots trace back to the 1830–1920 plantation era, when it became a hub for Dutch forced-crop (cultuurstelsel) economies. "Seventy investors established agricultural factories here," Reza noted. By 1882, Malang emerged as a distinct district under Dutch rule, later evolving into a Gemeente (self-governing municipality) in 1914.

The city’s landmark town hall, inaugurated in 1929, symbolized this shift. Designed by Dutch architect H.F. Horn, its inscription—"Voor de burgers van Malang" ("For the People of Malang")—clashed with its capitalist-driven development. "Even with a European architect, the tiered roof (atap tumpang) incorporated local Javanese styles," Reza highlighted.  

The 1920s–1930s saw rapid modernization, with commercialization expanding beyond plantations into finance, services, and entertainment. European-inspired urban planning accommodated population growth, yet Reza stressed this was "capitalist development, not social progress."

"They built for profit, not for the people," he said, citing segregated housing with narrow alleys (gang) designed for fire safety and disease control—"and maybe to catch pickpockets," he quipped.  

Dutch rule ended with Japan’s occupation, marking the start of Malang’s post-independence chapter. Reza’s work underscores how colonial foundations still shape the city—"a planet of the past," waiting to be fully decoded.