Bandung, April 19 -- In the heart of West Java's capital, Bandung, stands a historical structure called Gedung Merdeka, or Merdeka Building.

It is far from a mere old building as it bore witness to the crucial moment that ignited the will for self-determination among Asian and African nations.

Not only does the Merdeka Building have priceless historical value, it also stands as a symbol of the will of the Asians and Africans to rise and unite against colonial powers. The word "merdeka" itself means independence in the Indonesian language.

On April 18, 1955, the Merdeka Building had the privilege of hosting the Asian-African Conference, also known as the Bandung Conference, which turned out to be a critical milestone in the struggle of ...