Overview
This lecture discusses the background, events, and outcomes of the Battle of Medan Area, focusing on the struggle between Indonesian forces and Allied/NICA troops in Medan after World War II.
Background of the Battle
- On November 9, 1945, Allied forces led by Brigadier General TNI Dr. Lie landed in North Sumatra.
- The landing was accompanied by NICA (Netherlands Indies Civil Administration) troops aiming to take over the government.
- The day after landing, a team from RAPI (Relief of Light Prisoner of Work and Internment) signed for the control of prisoner camps at Brayan Island, Rantau Prapat, Pematang Siantar, and Berastagi.
Key Incidents
- The conflict escalated after an incident on October 13, 1945, on Jalan Bali, Medan, where a hotel resident seized and trampled a Red and White Badge, symbolizing Indonesia.
- In response, the hotel was attacked and damaged by Indonesian youths.
Allied Strategies and Actions
- On December 1, 1945, Allies placed “fixed boundaries Medan Area” boards around Medan’s outskirts.
- The British and NICA conducted cleansing operations against Indonesian republican elements in Medan.
- Resistance activities peaked in April-May 1946, as British troops attempted to oust the Indonesian government from Medan.
Relocation of Indonesian Forces
- The headquarters of the Indonesian Army (TKR) division and Mayor of the Republic moved to Pematangsiantar as British forces took control of Medan city.
Formation of Medan Area People's Army Regiment
- On August 10, 1945, a meeting of troop commanders led to the formation of the Medan Area People's Army Regiment Command.
- The regiment was divided into four sectors and headquartered in Sudi Rejo, Trepes, continuing resistance efforts in the Medan area.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Allied Forces — Military coalition led by Britain after WWII, aiming to re-establish control in Indonesia.
- NICA (Netherlands Indies Civil Administration) — Dutch colonial administration seeking to reclaim Indonesian territory.
- RAPI (Relief of Light Prisoner of Work and Internment) — Organization involved in handling prisoner camps.
- Red and White Badge — Symbol of Indonesian nationalism and independence.
- TKR (Tentara Keamanan Rakyat) — People’s Security Army, early Indonesian military force.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the formation and role of the Medan Area People’s Army Regiment.
- Study the sequence of Allied and Indonesian actions in Medan post-1945.