Makam Putri Mayang

Origin and Historical Background

Putri Mayang, or whose full name is Putri Mayang Sari, was a noble figure who lived in the 14th to 15th centuries AD. Based on the oral tradition (tato hiang) of the Dayak Ma'anyan people and local historical records, she was the daughter of the King of the Kuripan Kingdom (and later led the Negara Dipa Kingdom) in South Kalimantan. Her figure had a direct blood connection with the Majapahit Dynasty through political marriages that were common at that time to strengthen influence outside Java Island.

Putri Mayang Sari was known as a wise leader with high diplomatic skills. Her presence in the East Barito region began when she led a group from the Negara Dipa Kingdom to the interior to expand influence and establish good relations with local Dayak tribal chiefs. She did not come as a conqueror, but as a bringer of social change and a more structured system of governance.

Architecture and Construction Details of the Site

Architecturally, Makam Putri Mayang exhibits a unique blend of Hindu-Javanese style with Kalimantan local wisdom. Unlike modern tombs, this site has a very specific structure that reflects the princess's social status.

The main foundation of the tomb uses natural stones arranged neatly, showing the influence of construction techniques from outside Kalimantan in its time. The canopy building (tomb cover) has undergone several renovations, but still retains the ulin wood (ironwood) elements, which are the primary building material in the Barito land. The main uniqueness of this site is the presence of Dayak motif carvings and faint royal symbols that can still be seen on some parts of the old tombstones. Around the main tomb, there are several tombs of the princess's loyal followers who guarded her until the end of their lives, arranged in a circular pattern, symbolizing eternal protection.

Historical Significance and Related Events

This site is authentic evidence of the close relationship between the Majapahit Kingdom through Negara Dipa and the Dayak Ma'anyan tribe. One of the most prominent historical events related to this site is the process of "Belief Adoption" and the system of governance. Putri Mayang Sari is believed to be the figure who introduced a more advanced city planning and agricultural system to the people of East Barito.

Furthermore, the existence of this tomb proves that at that time, East Barito was an important trade and communication route. The Barito River and its tributaries served as "highways" connecting civilization centers on the coast with inland communities. Putri Mayang Sari played a role as a cultural bridge that minimized inter-tribal conflicts through a familial approach and inter-noble marriages.

Figures and Inter-Regional Relations

Putri Mayang's connection with great figures like Lambung Mangkurat and Prince Suryanata is deeply ingrained in the historical narrative of this site. As part of the extended Negara Dipa family, she brought a legitimacy of power recognized by the Dayak leaders. This had an impact on the social structure in East Barito, where many local noble titles later adopted terms from the Javanese-Banjar royal tradition.

The existence of this tomb is also often associated with the legend of "Putri Junjung Buih," although chronologically Putri Mayang belongs to a slightly different period. However, both are symbols of strong femininity in traditional leadership in Central Kalimantan.

Cultural and Religious Meaning

For the Dayak Ma'anyan people, Makam Putri Mayang is a very sacred place. This site is considered the resting place of ancestors that provides spiritual protection for the surrounding area. Every year, customary ceremonies are held around the tomb involving rituals of animal sacrifice and communal prayers.

Interestingly, this site has become a meeting point for religious tolerance. Although Putri Mayang Sari lived during the transition period from Hinduism to Islam in the South Kalimantan region, her tomb is still respected by people of all religions. Followers of Kaharingan (the original Dayak religion), Islam, and Christianity in East Barito view this tomb as a unifying identity for the region. There is a local belief that maintaining Makam Putri Mayang means maintaining the harmony of nature and society in East Barito.

Preservation and Restoration Status

Currently, Makam Putri Mayang has been designated as a Cultural Heritage Site by the East Barito Regency Government and the Central Kalimantan Provincial Government. Preservation efforts are continuously being made to protect the authenticity of the site from the threat of natural weathering due to the tropical climate.

Major renovations have been carried out to strengthen the building structure and improve accessibility for researchers and historical tourists. The local government has also built supporting facilities such as fences, historical information boards, and better road access. However, the main challenge in this preservation is maintaining the balance between modernizing tourist facilities and the sanctity of the customary rituals that are still actively taking place at the location.

Unique Facts and Heirlooms

One rarely known unique fact is the existence of several heirloom objects believed to be buried with or kept around the site, including bronze ceremonial equipment and traditional weapons that indicate a high level of metallurgical technology during Putri Mayang's time. Additionally, the vegetation around the tomb is dominated by old trees that have been intentionally left standing for centuries, creating a cool and magical microclimate, as if time has stopped in the area.

Makam Putri Mayang is not just a pile of stones and wood, but a silent narrative of how a national identity is formed through acculturation, peaceful diplomacy, and respect for ancestors. This site stands tall in the heart of East Barito as a reminder that the past is the main foundation for unity in the future.