Banjarmasin

History

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History and Development of Banjarmasin City: The City of a Thousand Rivers

Banjarmasin, the historical capital of South Kalimantan, is one of the oldest and most influential cities on the island of Kalimantan. With an area of 98.77 km², the city is strategically located in the geographical center of Indonesia, making it a vital trade hub connecting the interior of Kalimantan with international maritime routes.

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Origins and the Banjar Sultanate

The turning point in Banjarmasin's history began on September 24, 1526. This date marked the victory of Prince Samudera in the succession struggle for the throne of the Negara Daha Kingdom. With the support of the Demak Sultanate, Prince Samudera embraced Islam and was titled Sultan Suriansyah, establishing the Banjar Sultanate at the mouth of the Kuin River. This event not only marked the birth of Banjarmasin city but also the beginning of massive Islamic propagation in the South Kalimantan region. As historical evidence, the Sultan Suriansyah Mosque, built in traditional Banjar architectural style, still stands strong on the riverbank as a symbol of the local community's religiosity.

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Colonial Era and People's Resistance

The arrival of the Dutch through the VOC in the 17th century began to disrupt the economic stability of Banjar, which was rich in pepper and coal. Tensions culminated in the Banjar War (1859–1905), one of the longest battles against colonialism in the Nusantara. Legendary figures like Prince Antasari ignited the slogan "Waja Sampai Kaputing" (Strive until the last drop of blood). Although the Dutch succeeded in unilaterally abolishing the Banjar Sultanate in 1860, guerrilla resistance continued under the leadership of figures like Demang Lehman and Tumenggung Antaludin.

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Independence Era and National Integration

Following the proclamation of independence in 1945, Banjarmasin became a crucial stage for diplomacy and military operations. One heroic moment was the event of ALRI Division IV Kalimantan Defense under the leadership of Hassan Basry. Through the Proclamation of May 17, 1949, the Banjar people declared their full loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia, rejecting the Dutch-formed puppet state scheme. Banjarmasin's contribution to maintaining the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia in the Kalimantan region was highly significant for the de facto recognition of Indonesia's sovereignty.

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Cultural Heritage and Modernization

Geographically, Banjarmasin is unique because it lies below sea level, which has shaped a strong riverine culture. The Muara Kuin and Lok Baintan Floating Markets are heritages of traditional economy that reflect human adaptation to the wetland ecosystem. Administratively, Banjarmasin directly borders Barito Kuala Regency to the north and west, and Banjar Regency to the east and south, forming a dynamic metropolitan area.

Today, Banjarmasin is developing into an educational and service center. Although the provincial capital status has moved to Banjarbaru, Banjarmasin continues to play a role as the center of Banjar culture. The city continues to preserve the tradition of Barenteng (building houses along the riverbanks) and Sasirangan handicrafts, while continuously modernizing urban infrastructure without abandoning its identity as the "City of a Thousand Rivers".

Geography

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Geography and Natural Landscape of Banjarmasin

Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan Province, is a unique urban area geographically located in the central part of the province. With an area of 98.77 km², this city possesses very specific physical characteristics that are rare compared to other cities in Indonesia. Although administratively located on land and not directly bordering the open sea coast (non-coastal), the presence of water dominates almost every corner of its territory.

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Topography and Land Characteristics

Topographically, Banjarmasin is situated at an average elevation of 0.16 meters below sea level. This area is a very flat lowland, with almost no hills, valleys, or mountains. The soil structure is dominated by alluvial and swamp soils influenced by river tides. This condition earns Banjarmasin the nickname "City of a Thousand Rivers." Its borders directly adjoin three main neighboring areas: Barito Kuala Regency to the north and west, and Banjar Regency to the east and south.

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Hydrological Network and Main Rivers

The most striking geographical feature is the network of rivers that crisscross the city. The wide Barito River and the Martapura River are the main arteries of transportation and economy. The existence of interconnected small rivers creates a natural drainage system as well as ecological challenges, where the land often becomes inundated during peak sea tides or high rainfall. This river delta phenomenon creates fertile sedimentation but is unstable for permanent building construction.

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Climate and Seasonal Variations

Banjarmasin has a tropical wet climate with very high humidity, ranging from 70% to 80%. The average air temperature ranges from 26°C to 34°C. The rainfall pattern follows the monsoon cycle, with the rainy season intensifying from November to March. Due to its position in a lowland area surrounded by swamps, the city is highly susceptible to high evaporation, which often creates a thin layer of mist on the river surface in the morning.

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Natural Resources and Biodiversity

Although its forest area is limited due to urbanization, Banjarmasin still has important seasonal swamp ecological zones. The biodiversity in these areas includes riparian vegetation such as rumbia (sago) trees, nipah, and freshwater mangroves. In terms of resources, the region primarily serves as a distribution center for minerals (such as coal from upstream areas) and forest products, while local agriculture is dominated by tidal paddy fields.

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Geographical Coordinates

Astronomically, Banjarmasin is located at coordinates 3°15' to 3°22' South Latitude and 114°32' to 114°38' East Longitude. Its strategic position in the center of Kalimantan Island makes it a trade node connecting the interior regions with national distribution routes, even though its entire borders are surrounded by land and rivers, not the open sea.

Culture

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Banjarmasin: The Essence of River Culture in the Heart of South Kalimantan

Banjarmasin, known as the "City of a Thousand Rivers," is the cultural center of the Banjar people, blending elements of water, trade, and religiosity. Although administratively located on land spanning 98.77 km², the city's identity cannot be separated from the river ecosystem that forms its social and cultural foundation.

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Water-Based Traditions and Local Wisdom

The most iconic tradition is the Floating Market in Muara Kuin and Lok Baintan. Here, a barter system still exists, and transactions are conducted on *jukung* (wooden boats). The community is familiar with the term *Bapandukan*, which is the tradition of gathering at wooden docks for socialization. Additionally, there is the Malam Selamatan Banua ceremony, a communal prayer ritual to ask for the city's safety from danger, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature.

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Arts, Music, and Performances

Banjarmasin's performing arts are heavily influenced by Islamic and Malay narratives. Madihin is a form of oral literature consisting of humorous poetry chanted with the accompaniment of a *terbang* (frame drum), usually performed by a *Pamadihinan*. For dance, Tari Baksa Kembang is a welcoming dance for honored guests, symbolizing the gentleness of Banjar maidens. In terms of music, Gamelan Banjar has more dynamic and cheerful tones compared to Javanese gamelan, often accompanying Wayang Kulit Banjar performances that use local dialects.

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Authentic Local Cuisine

Banjarmasin's cuisine is dominated by the use of river fish and rich spices. Soto Banjar is a prime dish, using a cloudy broth mixed with milk or duck eggs, served with ketupat and quail satay. Don't miss Ketupat Kandangan with smoked haruan (snakehead fish). The city is also famous as a paradise for "Wadai" (traditional cakes), such as Bingka Barandam and Hamparan Tatak, which usually appear in large quantities during Ramadan as part of the iftar tradition.

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Language, Dialect, and Local Expressions

The community communicates using Banjar Language. There are two main dialects: Banjar Kuala (in Banjarmasin) and Banjar Hulu. Unique expressions like "Kada kawa" (cannot) or "Bungas" (beautiful/handsome) are often heard in daily conversations. This language also has levels of politeness called Basa Halus to respect elders or religious figures.

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Textiles and Traditional Attire

Sasirangan is the pride traditional fabric of Banjarmasin. Unlike batik, which uses wax, Sasirangan is made using a running stitch technique and tied before dyeing. Its motifs have philosophical meanings, such as *Iris Pudak* or *Kangkung Kaombakan*. For traditional attire, Pengantin Bagajah Gamuling Baular Lulut displays luxury with ancient Hindu-Javanese influences, using jasmine beadwork and gold accents.

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Religious Life and Cultural Festivals

As a religious city, Islamic traditions are very strong. Baayun Maulid is a tradition of rocking babies in decorated cradles during the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad SAW's birthday, aiming for the child to receive blessings. Every year, the Floating Market Cultural Festival is held to preserve traditional games like Balogo and Bakiak, reinforcing Banjarmasin's position as a timeless center of river civilization.

Tourism

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Exploring Banjarmasin: The City of a Thousand Rivers in the Heart of Kalimantan

Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan, is a rare gem strategically located in the central part of the archipelago. With an area of 98.77 km², this city has unique characteristics as a non-coastal region dominated by a labyrinth of canals and large rivers. Bordering Barito Kuala Regency and Banjar Regency, Banjarmasin offers a water-based cultural exoticism rarely found elsewhere in the world.

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Natural Charm and Water Wonders

Although it does not have beaches or high mountains, Banjarmasin's main attraction lies in its river ecosystem. The Martapura River and Barito River are the lifeblood of the community. Tourists can visit Kembang Island, a delta in the middle of the river that is a natural habitat for long-tailed macaques and proboscis monkeys, the endemic long-nosed primates of Kalimantan. To enjoy a lush city park atmosphere, Siring Menara Pandang offers a green open space on the riverbank, which becomes a favorite gathering spot at sunset.

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Cultural Heritage and Historical Traces

Banjar culture, which is religious and historical, is strongly reflected in the city's architecture. Masjid Raya Sabilal Muhtadin, with its magnificent golden dome, stands as a local spiritual icon. For history enthusiasts, Museum Wasaka, housed in a traditional Banjar stilt house (Rumah Bubungan Tinggi), preserves a collection of memorabilia from the South Kalimantan people's struggle against colonialism. The most authentic experience is visiting the Lok Baintan or Muara Kuin Floating Markets. Here, buying and selling transactions take place on wooden boats (jukung) from dawn, creating a very photogenic scene of colorful agricultural produce.

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Banjar Culinary Adventure

Culinary tourism in Banjarmasin is a rich, spice-filled journey of taste. You must try authentic Soto Banjar, which uses a milk or duck egg broth for its thickness, served with ketupat and chicken satay. Don't miss Ketupat Kandangan with savory smoked haruan (snakehead fish). For those with a sweet tooth, the city is a paradise for "Wadai" (traditional cakes) like Bingka Barandam and Lapis Legit, often sold in traditional markets.

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Outdoor Activities and Hospitality

The best outdoor activity is a *river cruise* using a Klotok boat. Navigating narrow canals through residential areas provides a unique perspective on life on the water. The Banjar people are known for their warm hospitality (the concept of Bubuhan). Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from modern boutique hotels in the city center to riverside inns offering direct views of water activities.

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is between June and September during the dry season, which facilitates river mobility without heavy rain. Additionally, September is usually enlivened by the Banjarmasin City Anniversary celebration with various decorated boat festivals and spectacular cultural art performances.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Banjarmasin City: River Trade Hub in South Kalimantan

Banjarmasin, known as the "City of a Thousand Rivers," plays a crucial role as the economic epicenter of South Kalimantan Province. Despite its relatively small area of 98.77 km², the city is a major logistics hub connecting the interior of Kalimantan with national and international markets. As a landlocked region in terms of administrative context but closely connected to the Barito water system, Banjarmasin has unique economic characteristics.

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Trade and Services Sector

The economic dominance of Banjarmasin lies in the tertiary sector. As a distribution center, the wholesale and retail trade sector contributes the highest GRDP. The existence of Trisakti Port is the main artery for the export of South Kalimantan's superior commodities such as coal and palm oil, as well as the import of consumer goods. Financial services, insurance, and real estate are also growing rapidly in line with its status as a business node in the central part of the Indonesian archipelago.

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Processing Industry and Traditional Crafts

The processing industry in Banjarmasin is dominated by the wood and rubber processing sectors. However, the uniqueness of the local economy is also reflected in traditional crafts with export value. Kain Sasirangan, a distinctive Banjar textile, has transformed from a cultural product into a commercial fashion commodity that employs thousands of local workers. Furthermore, the food processing industry based on river fisheries, such as the production of amplang and dried fish, are flagship products that strengthen local SMEs.

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River Maritime Economy and Tourism

Although not directly bordering the open sea, Banjarmasin optimizes its "river economy." The Muara Kuin and Lok Baintan Floating Markets are not just tourist attractions but centers of agrarian transactions that have endured for centuries. This river-based tourism drives the growth of the hotel and culinary sectors. The transformation of the Martapura Riverfront area into a new economic activity center demonstrates the successful integration of public infrastructure with commercial value.

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Infrastructure, Transportation, and Employment

Infrastructure development focuses on land and water connectivity. The construction of iconic bridges like the Rumpiang Bridge and the maintenance of city canals serve a dual purpose: flood control and logistics transportation routes. Employment trends show a shift from the informal sector to modern service sectors and the creative economy. The city government continues to promote the digitalization of SMEs so that local products can compete in the global e-commerce market.

With its strategic position in the middle of domestic trade routes, Banjarmasin continues to strengthen its position not only as an administrative city but as a resilient and adaptive economic driver for South Kalimantan in the face of global changes.

Demographics

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Demographics of Banjarmasin: Dynamics of the City of a Thousand Rivers

Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan Province, is an economic and social gravity center in central Indonesia. With a relatively compact area of 98.77 km², this city has unique demographic characteristics as a non-coastal region dominated by a wetland ecosystem.

Population Size and Density

Based on the latest data, Banjarmasin is inhabited by over 670,000 people. This makes it one of the most densely populated cities outside Java, with a density of around 6,800 people per km². Population distribution is concentrated in North Banjarmasin and West Banjarmasin, where trade activities and riverside settlements have grown massively.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The Banjar ethnic group is the majority, dominating the social structure, followed by the Javanese, Madurese, and Chinese ethnic groups. Banjarmasin's demographic uniqueness lies in the strong assimilation of river culture; the identity of "Urung Banjar" transcends ethnic boundaries through the use of the Banjar Language as a lingua franca. Religious life is very strong, with the majority of the population being Muslim, reflected in settlement patterns around mosques and prayer houses.

Age Structure and Population Pyramid

Banjarmasin has a young (expansive) population structure. The population pyramid shows a wide base in the productive age group (15-64 years), which constitutes over 68% of the total population. This creates opportunities for a demographic dividend but also puts pressure on the availability of jobs in the service and trade sectors.

Education and Literacy

Banjarmasin has a very high literacy rate, exceeding 99%. As a regional educational center, the city has a significant concentration of highly educated residents due to the presence of Lambung Mangkurat University and various other private higher education institutions. This attracts student migration from hinterland areas such as Barito Kuala and Banjar.

Urbanization and Migration Patterns

As a city directly bordering three regions (Barito Kuala Regency to the north/west and Banjar Regency to the east/south), Banjarmasin experiences a circular urbanization phenomenon. Daily mobility is very high, with residents from buffer regions entering the city for work. Although not directly bordering the sea, its central position makes it an important hub for internal migration from Central Kalimantan and the interior of South Kalimantan, reinforcing its status as a dynamic river metropolis.