This poster depicts a pemuda (youth, or young freedom fighter) with long hair and a rifle. His jungle hat, made of woven bamboo, signals that he is ready for guerrilla warfare. Behind him is a piece of paper with the title “Nota Belanda” (Dutch note), while at the bottom it says “Dibalik nota belanda pemoeda siap-sedia!” (Behind the Dutch note, the youth are totally ready). The ‘Dutch note’ was a proposal delivered by the Dutch representative P.J.A. Idenburg to the Indonesian Republic on 27 May 1947. It was regarded by the Indonesian premier Sjahrir as a Dutch invitation to either capitulation or total war. It is clear that the Indonesian government chose the latter. This poster calls upon the armed pemuda to support the Indonesian refusal to meet Dutch demands.
‘Nota Belanda’. One of a set of six Indonesian designs for propaganda posters, c. 1946/47. Hand coloured. Probably originated from the Indonesian propaganda centre Poesat Propaganda (PESINDO). Or. 27.011-14.