Ketapang

History

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History of Ketapang: The Jewel of West Kalimantan's Coast

Ketapang, a regency with an area of 29,908.05 km², plays a crucial role in the historical narrative of West Kalimantan. Strategically located in the central part of the west coast of the island of Borneo, this region has been a meeting point for maritime and inland civilizations for centuries.

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Historical Roots and Royal Era

The origins of Ketapang are inseparable from the existence of the Tanjungpura Kingdom. This kingdom was one of the oldest political entities in Borneo, whose traces are recorded in the Negarakertagama manuscript from Majapahit. Legendary figures like Giri Kusuma were important rulers who brought Islamic influence to this region in the 16th century. The center of the Tanjungpura Kingdom's administration moved several times, from Negeri Baru to Mulia Kerta. The name change to the Matan Sultanate marked a new phase where Ketapang became a significant trading center for pepper and gold in the archipelago.

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Colonial Period and People's Resistance

The presence of the Dutch in Ketapang began with a political contract in the 19th century to control natural commodities. However, colonial dominance was not smooth. One of the most heroic events was the Ketapang People's Resistance, led by local figures, against tax policies and forced labor (heerendienst). Ketapang also bore silent witness to the atrocities of the Japanese occupation, where many local intellectuals and nobles became victims in the Mandor Incident, which had a widespread impact even to the southern regions.

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Independence Era and National Integration

After the Proclamation of 1945, the people of Ketapang showed high loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia. Figures like Gusti Muhammad Saunan played an important role in maintaining regional stability during the transition period. Ketapang was officially established as a regency under the Province of West Kalimantan based on Emergency Law Number 3 of 1953. In the dynamics of national politics, Ketapang is unique for having quite a few administrative neighbors, bordering directly with nine regions, including regencies in Central Kalimantan, which strengthens its position as a cross-provincial bridge.

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Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Ketapang's historical heritage is clearly reflected in the still magnificent Matan Mulia Kerta Palace, which houses the sultanate's heirlooms. In addition, there is the Makam Keramat Tujuh (Seven Sacred Tombs) in Negeri Baru village, which serves as a religious tourism destination and the oldest archaeological evidence of the early Muslim community in the region. The oral tradition of "Syair Gulung" and the traditional ceremony "Robo-Robo," held at the river mouth, are manifestations of the Malay and local cultural acculturation that remains preserved to this day.

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Modern Development

Today, Ketapang has transformed from an ancient royal center into an economic powerhouse based on natural resources and maritime activities. With a vast coastline, the fisheries sector and international ports like the one in Kendawangan are pillars of development. Although modernization is progressing rapidly, historical values are still integrated into the city's development, making Ketapang an "Epic" region that balances economic progress with the preservation of authentic West Kalimantan historical identity.