Nusantara Toponymy: Uncovering the History of Regional Names

Every regional name—Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung—is not a random label, but a historical artifact that records events and legends.

1. Jakarta: Glorious Victory

Derived from "Jayakarta" (Sanskrit: Jaya = victory, Karta = achieved). The name given by Fatahillah after capturing Sunda Kelapa in 1527.

2. Surabaya: Sura ing Bhaya

Popularly associated with the myth of Shark (Sura) and Crocodile (Baya). But historically means "Courage to face danger" (Sura ing Bhaya).

3. Bandung: Ancient Dam

Taken from the word "Dam", referring to the natural lava dam of Mount Sunda Purba that created a giant lake in the past in the Bandung basin.

4. Semarang: Rare Tamarind Tree

According to legend, derived from "Asem yang Arang-arang" (Tamarind trees that grow rarely/sparsely), discovered by Ki Ageng Pandan Arang.

5. Makassar: Open Character

Derived from "A'Maka-sara'" meaning "to appear", reflecting the open, honest, and brave character of its people.

6. Balikpapan: Returning Board

There is a legend that a piece of tribute board lost in a storm but reappeared on the coast of that place, thus named Balikpapan.

Conclusion

Toponymy makes us realize that every name on the GeoKepo map has a soul and story. Studying it is a way to appreciate our nation's identity.