Kuning Palace

Origins and Establishment: A Manifestation of Yellow Identity

Kuning Palace was founded as the center of government and the official residence of the sultans of the Kutaringin Sultanate. The name "Kuning" (Yellow) in this palace is often misunderstood by newcomers as the color of the building's paint. In fact, the building is dominated by the dark brown color of the original ulin wood. The name "Kuning" refers to a sacred color in Malay and Kalimantan royal traditions, symbolizing nobility, glory, and purity.

The Kutaringin Sultanate itself was founded in the 17th century (around 1615) by Pangeran Adipati Antakasuma, son of Sultan Mustain Billah, the 4th Sultan of Banjar. The establishment of this palace marked the expansion of the Banjar Sultanate's influence into the western region of Kalimantan, which later developed into an independent political entity but maintained close familial ties with Banjar. The current palace is a result of reconstruction, as the original building suffered a major fire tragedy in the past.

Architecture: The Grandeur of Ulin Wood and Malay-Dayak Philosophy

Architecturally, Kuning Palace is a masterpiece of traditional woodworking. The primary material of this building is ulin wood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), or ironwood, known for its strength that can withstand hundreds of years of exposure to extreme tropical weather.

The building structure adopts the typical stilt house style of the Kalimantan region to avoid river floods and wild animal disturbances. However, what sets it apart are its ornamental details. The palace has four interconnected main buildings, symbolizing the four cardinal directions or the harmony of life. Its pyramid-shaped roof shows the influence of Javanese-Banjar architecture, while the carving patterns on the walls and fences display soft floral motifs, reflecting Islamic influence that avoids the depiction of living beings.

One of its unique construction features is the use of wooden pegs instead of iron nails. This technique allows the building structure to remain flexible yet very sturdy. Although it appears simple from the outside, the interior of the palace is designed with excellent air circulation, keeping the atmosphere inside cool without the need for mechanical cooling.

Historical Significance and Key Events

Kuning Palace was the center of political gravity in western Kalimantan. It was here that important decisions were made, ranging from strategies for trading agarwood and gold to diplomatic policies with the Dutch East Indies colonial government. The Kutaringin Sultanate was known as a relatively autonomous kingdom capable of maintaining regional stability from external influences for a considerable time.

The most heartbreaking event in the history of this site occurred in 1986. An arson incident by irresponsible individuals destroyed almost the entire original palace building along with many valuable artifacts inside. This event became a deep wound for the people of Kotawaringin Barat. However, the spirit to preserve cultural identity spurred a massive reconstruction effort in the 2000s to restore the palace's grandeur to its original form based on historical records and old photographs.

Key Figure: Pangeran Adipati Antakasuma

Speaking of Kuning Palace is inseparable from the figure of Pangeran Adipati Antakasuma. He was the central figure who negotiated with the inland Dayak tribes to establish a government in this region. His arrival was not seen as an invasion, but as a form of cultural and political alliance. Through his leadership, Islam began to spread peacefully along the Lamandau and Arut Rivers, creating a harmonious cultural assimilation between the coastal Malay traditions and the upstream Dayak traditions.

Preservation and Restoration: Refusing to Forget

Currently, Kuning Palace has been designated as a Cultural Heritage Site. The local government of Kotawaringin Barat, along with the sultanate's heir family, continues to make maintenance efforts. After reconstruction, the palace no longer functions as an administrative center but as a living museum and a center for cultural activities.

Although many original heirlooms were lost during the 1986 fire, some replicas and salvaged items are now exhibited inside the palace, including ancient cannons, royal thrones, and photographs of the sultanate's family tree. These preservation efforts focus not only on the physical building but also on reviving palace traditions, such as traditional ceremonies and the reception of distinguished guests, which still follow sultanate protocols.

Cultural and Religious Meaning

For the people of Pangkalan Bun, Kuning Palace is a symbol of religiosity. As the primary center for the spread of Islam in Central Kalimantan, the palace has a spiritual connection with the Jami' Abdurrahman Imanuddin Mosque, located not far from the palace complex. The relationship between the Palace (Umara) and the Mosque (Ulama) illustrates the Kutaringin governance system based on spiritual values.

Every corner of Kuning Palace teaches about local wisdom in managing nature. The use of ulin wood without massive destruction of the forest ecosystem in the past shows that the ancestors of Kotawaringin had a vision of sustainability. Now, with the renewed standing of Kuning Palace, the younger generation of Central Kalimantan has a historical compass to understand where they come from and how diversity has been woven since the time of Pangeran Antakasuma.

As a historical tourist destination, Kuning Palace offers more than just a view of old buildings. It offers a narrative about the resilience of a culture that refused to perish despite being struck by fire, and an identity that continues to shine "yellow" in the hearts of its people.