Louie Buana receives Philippus Corts Fund grant
Louie Buana, a PhD candidate at the Institute for History, has been awarded the 5th Philippus Corts Fund grant, together with Wengki Ariando and Adrian Perkasa (postdoctoral researchers at KITLV), for their joint book project 'Whose Nusantara? New narratives on decolonizing Indonesian knowledge and archipelagic futures'. The goal of the fund is to support research and publications on the shared history of Indonesia and The Netherlands in the period 1602–1949.
Whose Nusantara? New narratives on decolonizing Indonesian knowledge and archipelagic futures
This proposal introduces a collaborative edited volume book by KITLV researchers, recently accepted for publication under Leiden University Press’s 'Colonial and Postcolonial Continuities' edition. In a strategic shift from previous KITLV publications, this book will utilize high-quality illustrations and accessible prose. This book connects historical scholarship with contemporary relevance, catering to a diverse audience that includes students from various universities, scholars, government officials, and practitioners. What makes this book unique is its focus on young people in Indonesia, who are increasingly less interested in traditional books and require more diverse choices for literacy materials.
This book aligns with KITLV's contemporary focus by centering Indonesian voices and promoting a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the nation and a decolonized approach in knowledge (re)production. In addition, this book focuses on a transformative dialogue about Indonesia, one that prioritizes Indonesian perspectives, engages with diverse voices, and fosters a more understanding of the nation's past, present, and future. The book is divided into three sections: (1) pathways and linkages, (2) ecological histories and maritime legacies, (3) transformations: present realities and challenges, and (4) visions: reimaging futures and new methodologies. While there are crossing cutting issues that will be picked up through careful cross-referencing and an integrative concluding chapter, each contribution will sit within one of these three sections and speak mainly to that area of concern. Authors will open their chapters by summarising the current situation in the sub-field, highlighting controversies and emerging debates, and then situating and justifying their case within these literatures and debates. The expectation is that each contribution will be based on and around a significant case study, but authors will also be expected to link their case to the broader academic context.
In short, this volume is not just a retrospective look. It is an active effort to connect the past, present, and future, using the intellectual legacy of KITLV to inform current development discussions in Indonesia. By bringing together a group of scholars at KITLV, the book is dedicated to communicating scientific concepts in a creative and accessible way. To enhance understanding and engagement, this book will include illustrations and other visual aids, making complex research findings accessible to a broader readership.
Read more at the website of KITLV.