Penelehhistory.com: Surabaya (31/5/24) – The collaboration project between the Begandring Soerabaia Community (Surabaya, Indonesia) and TiMe Amsterdam (Amsterdam, Netherlands) in the Peneleh area, named “Peneleh as a Living Library”, not only covers the Peneleh European Cemetery but also the entire Peneleh area. Physically, this project focuses on the cemetery left by Europeans in Surabaya, but socially and culturally, it also involves the people living in Peneleh.
Community Interaction with Peneleh Cemetery
Peneleh Cemetery has become an integral part of the surrounding community. The cemetery is no longer a foreign place for the residents. Children often play football, fly kites, or simply chat on top of the tombs. Some youths even hang out on the concrete tomb covers without fear, as they are accustomed to the cemetery’s presence.
For adults, activities like drying clothes and resting on tombstones during the day are common. The cool breeze under large trees makes the cemetery a comfortable place for interaction.
Peneleh Cemetery in the Modern Era
In the digital era, Peneleh Cemetery has become an Instagrammable photography spot. Many creative contents are made here, from photos to videos. Some visitors even wear heavy makeup to create unique appearances. Stories and photos of Peneleh Cemetery have gained international recognition.
Community Role in the Project
In the “Peneleh as a Living Library” project, the community is expected to participate. Active involvement will foster a sense of ownership, encouraging the residents to maintain and preserve the area. Ultimately, the site can be utilized for educational, research, cultural, and tourism purposes.
Exploring Plampitan Village
As part of the project, on Wednesday (29/5/24), workshop participants consisting of professional architects were invited to tour Plampitan Village, located on the southern side of Peneleh. They observed the diverse architecture and the surrounding environment. Peneleh holds international-class local potential, especially in architecture and human civilization.
International Collaboration
Among the group were two heritage and museum consultants from the Netherlands, Max Meijer and Petra Timmer from the TiMe Amsterdam institution. They helped map out the local potential and connect it into a constellation of heritage and historical-based tourism.
Hopes for the Community
Max emphasized the importance of the community’s sense of ownership towards their environment, especially the Peneleh European Cemetery. The cemetery is expected to transform into an open stage for arts and culture. The idea of the Peneleh Cemetery Festival was also welcomed as a form of cultural and educational activity for the community.
With community involvement, Peneleh can develop into an area that is not only historically valuable but also beneficial for education, arts, and tourism.
