Pesanggrahan BTW (Bank Tin Winning)

The Historical Footprint of Pesanggrahan BTW: A Symbol of Tin Prosperity and Independence Struggle in West Bangka

Pesanggrahan BTW (Bank Tin Winning), also known by the local community as Wisma Ranggam, is more than just an old building standing strong in Mentok, West Bangka. This edifice is a silent monument that records two grand narratives in Indonesian history: the exploitation of the tin mining industry by the Dutch colonialists and the diplomatic struggle of the nation's founders in defending independence. Located in a strategic area overlooking the harbor, Pesanggrahan BTW bears witness to Mentok's transformation from a mining administrative center to a national political stage.

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Origins and Construction Context

Pesanggrahan BTW was built in 1827 by the Dutch colonial government's mining company, Banka Tin Winning Bedrijf (BTW). At that time, Mentok had been designated as the administrative center (Hoofdplaats) of the Bangka Residency. The construction of this guesthouse was initially intended to provide lodging facilities for high-ranking mining company officials, European guests, and colonial inspectors visiting Bangka Island to monitor tin production, which was the world's prime commodity at that time.

The name "Bank Tin Winning" itself refers to the Dutch state-owned enterprise that managed the entire tin production chain in Bangka. This guesthouse was designed as a symbol of Dutch prestige and economic dominance. Its existence marked an era when Bangka was no longer just a remote island, but a center of global economic attention, supporting the Dutch Kingdom's coffers in Europe.

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Architectural Characteristics and Construction Details

Architecturally, Pesanggrahan BTW displays the Indies Empire Style, an architectural style that developed in the Dutch East Indies in the 18th and 19th centuries, adopting European neoclassical elements but adapted to the tropical climate. The building is characterized by grand, large pillars, high ceilings for optimal air circulation, and massive windows and doors made of high-quality teak wood.

The building's walls were constructed using thick brickwork with very strong lime plaster, typical of colonial construction that withstands extreme coastal weather. One of its unique construction features is the use of patterned floor tiles imported directly from Europe. The layout follows a symmetrical pattern with a long central corridor connecting spacious rooms on the left and right sides. At the front, there is a large terrace that functions as a reception area, giving an open yet authoritative impression.

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Strategic Role in the Independence Struggle

Although built for colonial interests, history records Pesanggrahan BTW as a crucial site for the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia. Between 1948 and 1949, following the Second Dutch Military Aggression, this building was used as a place of exile for key figures of Indonesian independence. The Proclamator Bung Karno (Soekarno), along with other figures like Agus Salim, Mohammad Roem, and Ali Sastroamidjojo, were once housed here.

Unlike Pesanggrahan Menumbing, which is located on a hilltop and was used to exile Mohammad Hatta, Pesanggrahan BTW, situated lower down (in the town area), often served as a venue for crucial diplomatic meetings. It was within this building that initial negotiations took place between the exiled Indonesian leaders and delegates from the United Nations Commission for Indonesia (UNCI), as well as representatives from the Bijeenkomst voor Federaal Overleg (BFO).

One unique fact is Pesanggrahan BTW's role as an "emergency office" where national figures formulated diplomatic strategies to face international negotiation tables. The presence of these figures in Mentok actually fueled the people of Bangka's patriotic spirit, with local residents often gathering around the guesthouse's fence just to see or offer moral support to their leaders.

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Significance of Figures and Events

The name "Wisma Ranggam" itself began to be popularly used in relation to the building's location in Kampung Ranggam. The figures exiled here were not merely political prisoners; they turned this guesthouse into an intellectual center. Bung Karno, for instance, frequently discussed philosophy and political strategy on the building's terrace.

The most prominent historical event was the drafting process before the Roem-Roijen Agreement was reached. Mentok, through Pesanggrahan BTW, became a meeting point where Indonesian sovereignty was fought for through negotiation tables, not just weapons. This changed the building's status from a mere tin mining company guesthouse to a "Site of Independence Diplomacy."

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Preservation and Restoration Efforts

As a Cultural Heritage Site, Pesanggrahan BTW has undergone several restoration phases to maintain its structural integrity. The Bangka Barat Regency government, in collaboration with the Cultural Preservation Center, regularly conducts maintenance on the roof and supporting wooden structures that are vulnerable to termites and sea humidity.

Currently, the building's primary function is as a museum and historical tourist destination. Some rooms inside are still preserved as they were during the period of exile, including the table and chairs once used by Bung Karno. Historical digitization efforts have also begun, providing information via QR codes in the site area to help tourists understand the historical value of every corner of the building.

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Conclusion and Meaning for Local Identity

For the people of West Bangka, Pesanggrahan BTW is a symbol of dual pride. On one hand, it represents the glory of the tin industry that has shaped the socio-economic identity of Bangka Island for centuries. On the other hand, it is tangible proof that Bangka played a significant role in the national history of Indonesia.

The existence of this site serves as a reminder that Indonesian independence was achieved through a long process involving many places outside Java. Pesanggrahan BTW stands tall, bridging the colonial past with the independent present, inviting every visitor to reflect on the preciousness of the sovereignty once formulated within its thick walls. With its preserved architecture and strong historical narrative, Pesanggrahan BTW is not just a regional asset, but an invaluable national heritage.