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Indonesia Council Open Conference 2025
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Public History in Indonesia: How History Shapes the Nation

Individual Paper

Individual Paper

11:00 am

10 July 2025

Forum 3 (Melbourne Connect)

Session 7: Histories of Nationalism, Heroism and Public Memory

One Conference streams

History

Submission Description

Public history plays a critical role in shaping national identity and collective memory, serving as a bridge between academic history and the public. In Indonesia, public history encompasses a range of initiatives, from museums and monuments to media and education programs, all of which contribute to how citizens understand their past. By narrating historical events through the lens of national significance, public history fosters a shared identity rooted in Indonesia’s diverse cultures and complex history, from the colonial period to the present day. These efforts not only educate the public about key events but also engage citizens in critical discussions about historical narratives, including issues of independence, political transitions, and social justice. The teaching of public history in Indonesia emphasizes inclusivity, allowing marginalized groups to be represented in the historical discourse, and highlights the role of oral traditions and local histories. Through its diverse approaches, public history in Indonesia helps create a more nuanced understanding of the nation’s heritage and its ongoing evolution.

Keywords: public history, Indonesia, national identity, collective memory, historical education, inclusivity, local histories, heritage, public engagement.


Presenters

Presenters

Individual Paper Presenters

Mr Kresno Brahmantyo KRB - Independent