Brief Summary
This video provides a detailed account of the events surrounding the September 30th Movement in Indonesia in 1965, commonly known as G30S. It explores the political tensions, key figures, and the actions taken by various factions within the military and the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI). The video also touches on the aftermath of the movement, including the discovery of the bodies of the murdered generals and the subsequent political upheaval.
- The video describes the events leading up to the September 30th Movement, including the PKI's efforts to gain power and influence within the Indonesian government and military.
- It details the key players involved in the movement, such as Lieutenant Colonel Untung, DN Aidit, and General Soeharto, and their respective roles in the events.
- The video also covers the aftermath of the movement, including the discovery of the bodies of the murdered generals and the subsequent political upheaval.
The Political Climate Before the September 30th Movement
The political climate in Indonesia leading up to the September 30th Movement was marked by increasing tensions and conflicts involving the PKI. Incidents such as the Kanigoro incident, attacks on farmers in Kediri, and the Bandar Betsi incident in North Sumatra, where a government officer was killed, demonstrated the PKI's growing assertiveness and unilateral actions. A document revealing the PKI's plan to seize power further heightened these tensions, although the PKI dismissed it as a fabrication by their political rivals.
PKI's Strategy and Military Preparations
In preparation for seizing state power, the PKI formed a special bureau in 1964 to infiltrate the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI). This secret operation was led by Syam Kamaruzaman, who reported directly to the party chairman, DN Aidit. The PKI also sought to establish a "fifth force" by arming farmers and workers, a proposal that was supported by the Air Force Commander Omar Dani but firmly opposed by Army Lieutenant General Ahmad Yani. Despite the fifth force not materializing, the PKI managed to secure weapons from China, which were later used in the September 30th Movement.
The Council of Generals Issue and Bung Karno's Health
The PKI created the issue of a "council of generals" who were allegedly planning a coup, exacerbating tensions with the army leadership. This was accompanied by a fabricated document linking the generals to foreign powers. Meanwhile, President Sukarno's declining health added to the uncertainty, with possibilities of paralysis or death.
Planning and Preparations for the September 30th Movement
PKI leaders discuss the need to act swiftly to seize power, fearing that the capitalist generals will crush them if Bung Karno loses power. They plan a military movement targeting generals who are members of the so-called council of generals and those who are anti-communist. The movement aims to control vital installations and is led by officers such as Letnan Colonel Untung, Infantry Colonel Latif, and Air Major Suyono.
Doubts and Concerns Among PKI Members
During a meeting, several PKI members express concerns about the reliability of the information regarding the council of generals and whether the issue was deliberately created by their opponents to provoke them. They also question whether the matter has been discussed in the daily council meeting and ask for details about the balance of power within ABRI.
The PKI's Rationale and Strategy
The PKI leadership emphasizes the importance of loyalty to the party and the need for action. They claim that the information about the council of generals comes from trustworthy sources, including the Central Intelligence Agency (BPI). The PKI believes that Java is the key to victory and that controlling Java will determine the winner.
Finalizing the Plans for the Movement
The PKI finalizes the plans for the September 30th Movement, agreeing to take preemptive action in the form of a military operation and form a revolutionary council to replace the Dwikora Cabinet. They determine the division of labor, with military operations handed over to the chairman and political matters to the daily council of the bureau.
The Eve of the Movement
On the eve of the movement, progressive revolutionary officers are called to close ranks. Colonel Latif explains the operational plan, which is divided into three commands: the kidnapping and ambush command (Pasopati troops), the city control command (Bimasakti troops), and the base command (Gatotkoco troops).
Doubts and Preparations
As the September 30th Movement approaches, concerns arise about the PKI's increasing influence and the potential for civil war. The plan is divided into three commands: kidnapping, city control, and base operations, all under Colonel Untung's leadership.
Final Instructions and Departure
Final instructions are given, dividing the headquarters of the movement into two central commands. The targets are identified as imperialist lackeys, and the mission is to kidnap the generals dead or alive. Troops are assigned to specific targets, and the operation is set to begin.
The Kidnappings
Early in the morning, the kidnappings of the generals begin. Nasution escapes, but his daughter is shot. Other generals are taken from their homes, with varying degrees of resistance.
The Aftermath of the Kidnappings
Following the kidnappings, reports of gunfire and unusual activity flood in. The fate of the kidnapped generals remains uncertain, but it is clear that a significant event has taken place.
Declaration of the September 30th Movement
Lieutenant Colonel Untung announces the September 30th Movement on the radio, stating that it was aimed at generals who were members of the council of Generals. He declares that President Soekarno is safe and that actions will be followed throughout Indonesia. An Indonesian Revolutionary Council will be formed, and political parties can continue their activities as long as they declare loyalty to the council.
Counter-Actions and Resistance
In response to the September 30th Movement, counter-actions are taken by other military factions. Soeharto takes command of the Army and declares that Untung's statement is untrue. He orders troops to return to Kostrad and prepares to face the movement.
Soeharto Takes Control
General Soeharto informs commanders that he has taken temporary leadership of the Army and seeks their understanding and assistance. He emphasizes the need for coordination and control of troop movements.
Halim Air Base Becomes a Focal Point
Halim Air Base is identified as a central location for the September 30th Movement, with reports of People's Youth being trained there. General Soeharto orders the liberation and control of Halim and seeks to ensure President Soekarno's safety.
Conflicting Orders and Broadcasts
Conflicting orders and broadcasts create confusion and uncertainty. The September 30th Movement announces the formation of an Indonesian Revolutionary Council and declares that the highest rank in the armed forces is Lieutenant Colonel. Meanwhile, General Soeharto announces that the movement is counter-revolutionary and will be destroyed.
The Tide Turns
Brigadier General Suparjo's premonition proves correct as some troops join Kostrad. The situation worsens for the September 30th Movement, and they prepare to move their troops to Pondok Gede.
Soeharto's Announcement and Counter-Measures
General Soeharto announces on the radio that the September 30th Movement has kidnapped high-ranking Army officers and formed an Indonesian Revolutionary Council. He declares their actions counter-revolutionary and assures the people that the movement will be destroyed.
The Capture of RRI and Telkom
Military forces loyal to Soeharto retake control of RRI and Telkom, strategic locations that had been seized by the September 30th Movement.
The Battle for Halim Air Base
Forces loyal to Soeharto launch an assault on Halim Air Base, leading to intense fighting. Efforts are made to minimize casualties, but the situation remains tense.
President Soekarno's Position
General Soeharto is summoned to the Bogor Palace, where President Soekarno is located. The President seeks to understand the situation and maintain control.
Meeting at Bogor Palace
At Bogor Palace, President Soekarno meets with General Soeharto and other officials. He emphasizes the need for understanding and concern and states that the Army should not suspect other forces.
Soeharto's Authority Reinforced
President Soekarno reinforces General Soeharto's authority, tasking him with restoring security and order. He announces this to the people to eliminate doubts and ensure clear leadership.
The Discovery of the Generals' Bodies
Halim Air Base is brought under control, and the search for the missing generals begins. The bodies of the murdered generals are discovered in Lubang Buaya, a location within the Halim area.
The Aftermath and Condemnation
The discovery of the generals' bodies leads to widespread condemnation and grief. General Soeharto expresses gratitude to the units and people who helped find the evidence and lift the bodies.
Armed Forces Day Address
During an Armed Forces Day address, the speaker laments the humiliation and persecution suffered by the military. He vows to continue the struggle for honesty, truth, and justice and honors the fallen generals as heroes.
