Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse

Historical Context and Colonial Construction

The construction of Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse was carried out by the Dutch colonial government through the Loodswezen (Pilotage Service) in 1862. Its construction was triggered by the increasing volume of ship traffic carrying tin from Bangka to international markets, as well as the need for safe navigation in the narrow, coral-prone Bangka Strait.

Technically, this tower is part of the maritime infrastructure network designed by Dutch engineers at that time. Although the specific architect's name is often buried in the Waterstaat archives, its design follows the standard pattern of a first-class lighthouse tower (Eerste Klas), prioritizing structural resistance to saltwater corrosion and extreme lateral wind pressure.

Architectural Typology and Structural Design

Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse features a functionalist colonial architectural style with a cylindrical tower shape that tapers upwards. This structure, approximately 56 meters high, is built with very thick red brick as the primary material, which is then covered with smooth plaster and painted a clean white. This white color is not merely aesthetic but serves as a "daymark" or visual marker for sailors during the day.

Structurally, the tower consists of 18 floors connected by a spiral staircase made of cast iron. This staircase is one of the most iconic interior elements, showcasing the advancements in European metallurgy at that time. Each step is embedded into the brick wall structure, creating an internal bracing system that helps the tower remain stable during tremors or strong winds.

Architectural Details and Technical Innovations

One of the architectural unique features of Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse lies in its "Lantern House" at the summit. This room is surrounded by thick glass with a stainless steel frame capable of withstanding sea wind pressure. Inside, there is a Fresnel lens, an optical innovation that allows light from a small lamp to be projected up to 20 nautical miles (approximately 37 kilometers).

At the base of the tower, there are supporting buildings that once served as oil storage (for lamp fuel) and quarters for the lighthouse keeper (Lighthouse Keeper). These base buildings have a simplified Indische Empire Style architectural characteristic, with high ceilings and large windows for optimal air circulation in the humid tropical climate.

Social and Cultural Significance

For the people of Muntok and Bangka Barat, Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse is a symbol of resilience. This tower witnessed dark historical events during World War II, particularly the bombing of Australian hospital ships by Japanese aircraft in the waters in front of the lighthouse in 1942. The "Vyner Brooke" tragedy has made the area around this lighthouse a memorial site for Australians and the international community.

Socially, this lighthouse has transformed from a mere navigation tool into a public space. It has become a center of orientation for the local community. Its existence provides a sense of security and pride in a historical heritage that remains authentic to this day.

Visitor Experience and Visual Aesthetics

Visiting Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse offers a profound architectural experience. Visitors are allowed to climb the spiral staircase to reach the balcony at the top of the tower. The journey up the 117 steps provides a claustrophobic yet poetic spatial sensation, with sunlight entering through small windows (portholes) along the cylindrical walls.

From the summit balcony, visitors are treated to a 360-degree panoramic view encompassing the Tanjung Kalian coastline, the busy ferry port, and the expanse of the Bangka Strait. Here, the interaction between man-made architecture and the natural landscape is starkly contrasted yet harmonious. The white structure of the tower stands out against the blue sea and green coastal vegetation.

Preservation and Current Function

To this day, Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse continues to function as an active navigational aid for shipping (SBNP) under the supervision of the Class I Navigation District of Palembang. The authenticity of its structure has been maintained despite being over a century and a half old. Conservation efforts are ongoing, including regular repainting to protect the brick walls from salt attack, which is common in coastal buildings.

The presence of the wreck of the "SS Vyner Brooke" near Tanjung Kalian beach adds another layer of historical value to this site, making it a complex historical tourism destination. The integration of technical function, historical value, and tourism potential makes Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse an invaluable architectural asset for the Bangka Belitung Islands Province.

As an iconic building, Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse teaches that good architecture is architecture that transcends its technical function. It not only illuminates the way for sailors but also illuminates the long history of a nation's journey on the world's maritime routes. The tower stands tall, blending the strength of 19th-century brick structure with timeless aesthetic charm.