History of the Balai Pemuda in Surabaya

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It comes as no surprise that the historical Balai Pemuda is heavily protected by the government of Indonesia when you find out what happened to it during its time. The prominent structure is located along Gurbernur Suryo Street and is known for being a center for performing arts. The structure was designed by a man named Westmaes and was built in 1907 with the name De Simpangsche Societat or Simpang Societeit. At the time, it was often used by the Dutch as a dancing, partying and bowling venue. The venue was originally for the Dutch exclusively as natives were not allowed to enter the structure. Surabaya citizens were angered by the claims that neither natives nor dogs could step into the structure. The building was therefore known to be the Club of Whites.

That changed later on. Upon nearing the Independence of the country, the Bali Pemuda was used as the headquarters for the PRI or the Arek-arek Suroboyo Youth Incorporated in the Indonesian Republic. At the time, the movement of the Republic was as dynamic as each strategic issue that related to the struggle for independence. Everything was then discussed in the building. Come 1971, it was finally named Balai Pemuda. It was because of its association with the Young Fellows Republic that the building got its current name, which translates to the Youth Center. In 1980, the building was restored but no change to its appearance was made in order to keep the historical building much like its original form. In year 1988, the same building was used as the Veteran Association office, the Boy Scout Office and the Tourism office.

The building is more than 17,000 square meters wide with a classy architectural style. The nighttime is when it is most beautiful with colorful lights that line the roof of the building. The Balai Permuda is divided into three main areas. The first division is where art and cultural presentations take place. Here, East Java traditional dances are performed such as the Reog, Kuda Lumping and the Karapan Sapi. The other division was made solely for meeting purposes where only those of concern are allowed to enter. The third division is then the Mitra 21 cinema.

Today, the building serves the community for a variety of purposes such art exhibitions, music festivals, seminars and even wedding receptions. Aside from fantastic musical and dance performances held in the Balai Permuda, the building is also the venue of the annual Festival Seni Surabaya, which is held every June. The festival is the city’s summer celebration where hundreds of locals and tourists head to the cultural center to join in on the celebration. Make sure to visit the building if you’re in Surabaya during this time.

Because the Balai Permuda is such a famous building, you’ll have no problems finding your way there: almost any local will know the way. It is also strategically located in the heart of the city. With the rich historical contribution of the Balai Pemuda to Surabaya, it was then declared as a cultural pledge to the city of Surabaya along with 163 ancient buildings and sites.