The Bekasi Regency Government’s Efforts to Preserve Local Culture at Gedung Juang 45

Abstract

This study explores the efforts of the Bekasi Regency Government in preserving local culture through the Gedung Juang 45 Museum as a historical and cultural landmark. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, the research seeks to understand how the local government, cultural institutions, and community members collaboratively sustain cultural identity amidst urban modernization. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, involving key informants such as cultural division staff, heritage experts, and museum visitors. The results reveal that cultural preservation initiatives extend beyond physical restoration to include educational programs, public participation, and symbolic communication practices that strengthen local heritage awareness. Gedung Juang 45 functions as a communicative space linking the past and present through exhibitions, historical narratives, and participatory activities. The study highlights the importance of cultural interaction, government policy, and public involvement in maintaining social and cultural continuity. Ultimately, cultural preservation in Bekasi is shown not only as a governmental obligation but as a shared responsibility in cultivating collective memory and regional identity.