h94

 POLITICS, ECONOMY AND LAW

responded to Japanese pressure with flex ible diplomacy in order to protect the peo ple's welfare and safety.

Pura Pakualaman, the residence of Prince Pakualam

With the proclamation of independence on August 17, 1945. Sultan Hamengku Be wono IX responded by announcing on Sep tember 5, 1945 that Kraton Jogja joined the state of Republic of Indonesia an a Special Province, Government and regional admin istration was wholly in the Sultan's hand but the Sultan was directly accountable to the President of the Republic of Indonesia.

In 1946, the capital of Republic of Indone sia was endangered by the return of the Dutch army in their atternpt to regain control over the coliny. The Sultan took an initiative by offering to move the capital from Jakarta (then known as Batavia) to Jogjakarta, to help protect the infant republic. As a result. of Indonesia for nearly four years.

This proved a pivotal decision, putting the city at the heart of Indonesia's struggle for in dependence and forever in the history books. Being the capital, Jogjakarta became the cen ter of diplomacy and military actions against the Dutch invasion. Young people eager to fight for the country flocked to the city, which became a centre of the revolution

The capital returned to Jakarta after the war of independence, but Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX continued to play important roles in the new government, serving in vani ous cabinets and also for a short while as Vice President of the republic. In later years, the Sultan kept out of politics, but was a source of great encouragement for people in the constant struggle for freedom.

Sultan Hamengku Buwono X ascended the throne in 1989 in the Development Era His focus is to strengthen the position of Kraton Jogja as a center of culture. His criti cal stance in country political development is reflected through his cultural initiatives.

Sumber : KRATON JOGJA - The History and Cultural Heritage, H.94