Situated in Cimahi, the Leuwigajah war cemetery is the largest (in term of number of war victims) Dutch war cemetery in Indonesia, among the seven maintained by the Netherlands War Graves Foundation (Oorlogsgravenstichting/OGS). The cemetery is accessed through the entrance of the Leuwigajah public cemetery and serves as a reminder of the region’s military heritage and the diverse backgrounds of the individuals interred here. The Leuwigajah war cemetery is the final resting place for over 5,200 victims, both military and civilian, who perished in various circumstances mostly during but also after World War II.
Video: How to get to Ereveld Leuwigajah
The area where the Leuwigajah war cemetery now stands was originally empty land during World War II, used to bury those who died in exile around the barracks of the IXth and Xth Battalions of the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL). As the graves multiplied, the site evolved into the war cemetery we see today. The cemetery was officially inaugurated on 20 December 1949. Alongside exiled victims, the cemetery includes the graves of KNIL and Royal Dutch Army soldiers who died post-World War II.
Over time, the cemetery became a final resting place for not only those who died in the area but also those who died elsewhere in the archipelago. Initially, the Graves Registration Unit of the KNIL developed 22 war cemeteries across Indonesia. However, in a significant consolidation effort during the 1960s, at the request of the Indonesian government, these war cemeteries were merged into the current seven war cemeteries in Java, including Leuwigajah.
This cemetery, in particular, has seen the reburial of war victims from Muntok (1960), Padang (1962), Tarakan (1964), Medan (1966), Palembang (1967), and Balikpapan (1967).
This memorial, inaugurated on September 21, 1984, commemorates the victims who died during transport at sea in Southeast Asia between 1942 and 1945. The Junyo Maru, a Japanese ship, was torpedoed on September 18, 1944, off the coast of Bengkulu, Sumatra, while carrying 2,300 prisoners and 4,200 forced laborers. The tragedy claimed an estimated 5,600 lives. The memorial was a gift from the Junyo Maru Memorial Foundation, ensuring that the memory of those lost at sea is preserved within the solemn grounds of Leuwigajah war cemetery.
Located prominently along the central footpath, this symbolic tomb is dedicated to all those who sacrificed themselves during the war but are not specifically mentioned or buried in the cemetery. This tomb serves as a respectful acknowledgment of the many individuals who paid the ultimate price, ensuring their memory is honoured and their sacrifices are not forgotten. The tomb bears the inscription “Their Spirit Has Overcome,” echoing the motto of the KNIL Grave Registration Unit.
Parking Area
Leuwigajah War Cemetery Main Gate
Pendopo, Information Centre & Guest Book
Pendopo
Symbolic Tomb
Information Sign
Flagpole
Memorial Stone for Victims of Junyo Maru
Pergola
Grave Sign Workshop
Toilet
Ereveld Leuwigajah Supervisor’s House
Ereveld Leuwigajah Supervisor’s Office
General Visits:
During visiting hours, Leuwigajah war cemetery welcomes individuals and small groups to the serene grounds at their own pace, taking time to reflect on the histories and stories that the war cemetery holds. The tranquil paths and solemn monuments provide a contemplative environment for all who come to pay their respects.
Group Visitation and Tours:
For those interested in a more structured visit or group tours, it’s important to note the staff’s working hours. During these times, we may be able to accommodate group visits with a guided tour led by the war cemetery manager (with prior notice and confirmed availability). These tours offer a deeper insight into the significance of the site and the stories of those commemorated here, making them ideal for educational groups, organisations, or anyone looking to understand more about this historical site.
Guided Tours with Partner Organisations:
For visitors whose schedules do not align with our working hours, or who prefer a professional guided experience, we have partnered with reputable local guides in Cimahi. Please let us know if you’re interested and we will redirect you to our partners.
If you’re interested in learning about the types of visits available at the war cemetery, please visit our Visit Us page.
Media coverage, research, flying drones, professional photography sessions and conducting events within the war cemetery requires permission. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining the sanctity of this solemn space.
Every day: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Monday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Friday, 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Saturday, 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
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