Why is Yogyakarta called a Special Region? History and its meaning

Javanese news – Yogyakarta has a unique status as a Special Region (DIY) from the Dutch colonial era to the era of Indonesian independence. Check out the history, the role of the sultan, and the meaning of its features in this full article.

Java Island consists of six provinces, one of which is the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). The nickname “Special Region” is not just a symbol, but a recognition of the city’s historical, political, and cultural positions that are different from other regions in Indonesia.

The specialty of Yogyakarta has been recorded since the Dutch colonial period, when the Sultanate of Yogyakarta and the Pakualaman Duchy gained special status that made this region have its own autonomy.

The origin of the special status of Yogyakarta

According to books The specialty of Yogyakarta from a geomorphological point of view Langgeng Wahyu Santosa’s work, the two kingdoms during the Dutch colonial period were the Vasal Kingdom or Self -managing landscapeswhich means they are allowed to manage internal affairs independently.

Even when Japan occupies Indonesia, this special status is still recognized, as Kopoti, which gives them the right to regulate their own territory even though they remain under the supervision of the occupation authorities.

A few days after the proclamation of independence on August 17, 1945, Prince Purboyo suggested that Yogyakarta be given the status of full autonomy in the PPKI session on August 19, 1945. The status of the cooti was later maintained, and on September 1, 1945, the Indonesian National National Committee (KNID) Yogyakarta was formed.

Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX issued the mandate of September 5, 1945, which confirmed the joining of the Yogyakarta Monarchy into the Republic of Indonesia.

On the same day, Sri Paduka Paku Alam VIII also issued a similar decree. With this decision, the DIY region, including the Sultanate of Yogyakarta and the Duchy of Paku Alaman, officially became part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Yogyakarta and Round Table Conference

After the Round Table Conference, the Dutch officially recognized Indonesia’s sovereignty as the Republic of the United States (RIS).

In this period, Yogyakarta had become the Capital of the State of Temporary, until August 17, 1950 when Law Number 3 of 1950 was passed.

This law confirms Yogyakarta as a special region at the provincial level, although legally has differences with other provinces, especially in terms of the leadership of the regional head.

The meaning of the specialty of Yogyakarta

The Special Region Status provides Yogyakarta Special Authority in Government and Socio -Cultural Life.

Historically, his government combined the Sultanate of Yogyakarta and the Duchy of Paku Alang. The Sultan holds the position as governor, while Paku Alam acted as deputy governor, a system that was rarely found in other provinces.

Some of the main substances of Yogyakarta features include:

1. The history of the formation of government – DIY autonomy has been recognized since the 1945 Constitution, with a recognition of special and special regional government.
2. Form of government – a combination of two kingdoms, which through the mandate of September 5, 1945 united in one region of the Republic of Indonesia.
3. Leadership – The Sultan as the regional head has a political role as well as a cultural symbol. In 2012, Sultan Hamengku Buwono X emphasized his position through the Sabdatama Kingdom Dekret, ensuring the Governor of DIY was the Sultan, with Paku Alam as a representative.

The role of the sultan in independence and government

Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX has a major contribution in the struggle for independence. When the capital of the Republic of Indonesia moved to Yogyakarta because of the fall of Jakarta to the hands of the Dutch in 1946, the Sultan provided the palace as the center of the Provisional Government. This attitude shows significant political and military support, making the Sultan symbol of the national struggle.

Special social and cultural life

Yogyakarta is not only special politically, but also culture and education. The city is known as the center of Javanese art with shadow puppet, gamelan and batik performances that are recognized internationally.

The Yogyakarta Palace remains a cultural center as well as a symbol of the monarchy government. In addition, Yogyakarta is a city of students with well -known universities such as Gadjah Mada University, making it an education center in Indonesia.

The specialty of Yogyakarta is reflected in a unique combination of history, politics and culture. DIY status allows the Sultan to lead as regional heads with privileges, while maintaining rich traditions and social life. This is what makes Yogyakarta not just an ordinary province, but a special area that is truly unique in Indonesia. ***