Depok (20/04/2026) – Efforts to preserve local history in Depok City are now expanding into the realm of visual literacy. The Cornelis Chastelein Institute Foundation (YLCC), an institution focused on preserving the historical heritage of the Old Depok area, officially launched a new work titled the comic ‘Kaum Depok’ on Saturday (18/04/26).

This step is taken as a fresh strategy to introduce the historical narrative of “Old Depok” to the younger generation through a more popular and easily digestible medium.

Master Collaboration: The Touch of Gerdi WK in Historical Narration

This comic was written and drawn by a legendary comic artist, Gerdi WK. The presence of Gerdi WK in this project provides strong aesthetic value and depth of story, given his expertise in crafting historical narratives into captivating visual panels. This work is expected to become a bridge of information regarding the identity and origins of a community with a unique historical root dating back to the 17th century in the heart of Depok City.

Literacy Strategy for Millennials and Gen Z

A representative from YLCC stated that the release of this comic is a form of the institution’s adaptation in managing history. If usually the history of Old Depok is synonymous with old documents and ancient buildings, the presence of the ‘Kaum Depok’ comic provides a new, more dynamic face so that history not only belongs to the older generation but can also be enjoyed by today’s youth.

Information Access and Documentation

YLCC has provided an official release document and supporting materials related to the launch of this comic which can be accessed by the public and media colleagues through the following link:

This event marks a new chapter for YLCC in communicating historical values through the creative industry channel, while also reaffirming the position of Old Depok as an area with timeless historical significance.

Depok

Depok is a city in West Java, Indonesia, known historically as a former colonial plantation area established by Cornelis Chastelein in the 18th century. It later developed into a key educational hub, home to the University of Indonesia, and has grown into a densely populated suburb of Jakarta. Today, Depok blends its colonial-era heritage with modern urban development and a strong academic community.

Cornelis Chastelein Institute Foundation

The Cornelis Chastelein Institute Foundation is a cultural and educational organization based in Depok, Indonesia, named after the 17th-century Dutch colonial official Cornelis Chastelein. Chastelein is historically known for freeing his slaves and granting land to local workers, which led to the development of the Depok community. The foundation today focuses on preserving the cultural heritage, history, and traditions of the Depok area, particularly its unique blend of Dutch and Indonesian influences.

Old Depok

Old Depok refers to a historic area in Depok, West Java, Indonesia, originally established as a private estate by Dutch colonial landowner Cornelis Chastelein in the 18th century. He freed his slaves and granted them land, leading to the formation of a unique Christian community with its own cultural traditions. Today, it is known for its colonial-era architecture and the preservation of its distinct heritage.