Dedi Mulyadi and Lembur Pakuan: Harmony of Sundanese Culture in West Java
H. Dedi Mulyadi, S.H., is widely known for his concern for Sundanese culture and the people of West Java. As a leader, he displays a distinctive style—simple, humanistic, and full of philosophy. Born in Subang on April 11, 1971, Dedi pursued politics with the intention of making culture the lifeblood of development.
Biography and Political Career
| Full name | H. Dedi Mulyadi, S.H., M.M. |
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| Nickname | Kang Dedi / KDM |
| Place and date of birth | Subang, April 11, 1971 |
| Religion | Islamic |
| Parent | Sahlin Ahmad Suryana (father) and Karsiti (mother) |
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| Hometown | Sukasari Village, Dawuan District, Subang Regency, West Java |
Before serving as Governor of West Java, Dedi served as the Regent of Purwakarta for two terms (2008–2018). His tenure was marked by breakthroughs that emphasized Sundanese cultural values. He designed public spaces with Sundanese symbols—from statues and gates to a calming and meaningful city layout.
Dedi Mulyadi often cites Sundanese life philosophies, such as silih asih, silih asah, silih asuh, meaning mutual love, mutual advice, and mutual care. These values form the basis of his policies for regional development, particularly in the social, educational, and environmental sectors.
Sundanese Leadership Philosophy
In Dedi's view, a leader is not merely an official, but a servant of the people. He often visits villages directly, speaking with farmers, fishermen, and small traders. His down-to-earth approach endears him to many. He believes that regional progress must begin with the roots of one's own culture.
As Governor of West Java, Dedi Mulyadi introduced the program “"guarding the village"” A village environmental and cultural preservation initiative. This program aims to maintain a balance between modern development and the preservation of traditional values.
The Beginning of Lembur Pakuan
One of Dedi Mulyadi's great legacies is the idea Pakuan Village A cultural area located in Sukasari Village, Dawuan District, Subang Regency. This initiative, initiated by Dedi Mulyadi, aims to revive Sundanese cultural values through the development of a beautiful, green, and traditional-inspired village. Lembur Pakuan is not only a tourist destination, but also a cultural educational space that combines art, history, and the Sundanese philosophy of life.
Name “Pakuan Village” inspired by “Pakuan Pajajaran”, “Lembur” means village, whereas “Pakuan” refers to the name of the ancient capital of the Sunda Kingdom. However, Dedi Mulyadi emphasized that Lembur Pakuan is not an ancient historical site, but rather a modern reinterpretation of the spirit of Sundanese culture. It symbolizes the glory of the Sundanese people of the past. Dedi Mulyadi revived the spirit of Pakuan through the development of this village, with traditional bamboo houses, a village pavilion, and open areas surrounded by rice fields and trees.
Beginning of Development
- The development started from Dedi Mulyadi's personal idea to turn his hometown into a cultural village.
- He involved the local community in greening, spatial planning, and the construction of Sundanese architectural style houses.
- This project then developed into a cultural and educational tourism destination for the people of West Java.
Values and Functions
At Lembur Pakuan, people can learn Sundanese arts, such as angklung, zither, flute, puppet show, and traditional dances. In addition, there are also activities ngamumule leuweung (protecting the forest) and organic farming, which emphasizes the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
This area embodies Dedi Mulyadi's vision: "Ngahudangkeun jiwa Sunda"—awakening the friendly, intelligent, and cultured Sundanese spirit. He wants every West Javanese to feel proud of their identity and understand that true progress stems from one's own cultural roots.
Legacy and Hope
Today, Lembur Pakuan continues to thrive as a center for cultural activities, educational tourism, and Sundanese research. Many schools and communities come there to learn about local wisdom. Dedi Mulyadi hopes this initiative will serve as a model for other regions to develop with a cultural spirit.
Dedi Mulyadi's life journey proves that culture is not a barrier to progress, but rather a moral foundation that strengthens the nation's character. With a gentle yet firm Sundanese spirit, he guided society toward a more civilized and cultured future.
