Baharan Palace

The Grand Footprint of the Kotapinang Sultanate: Exploring the History and Architecture of Baharan Palace

Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency in North Sumatra holds a historical gem that bears silent witness to past glories on the eastern coast of Sumatra. One of the most iconic relics is Baharan Palace, a historical site that represents the grandeur of the Kotapinang Sultanate. This palace is not just an old building, but a symbol of sovereignty, Malay cultural identity, and a meeting point of civilizations on the banks of the Barumun River.

#

Origins and Period of Establishment

Baharan Palace is the third palace built by the Kotapinang Sultanate. The sultanate itself has strong historical roots, founded by Sultan Batara Sinomba (Batara Gurga Pinayungan), a descendant of the Pagaruyung Kingdom in Minangkabau. The construction of Baharan Palace is estimated to have taken place from the late 19th to the early 20th century, specifically during the reign of Sultan Ma’moer Perkasa Alamsyah (the 11th Sultan of Kotapinang).

The choice of location in Baharan, which is now administratively part of Kotapinang District, was based on strategic economic and defense considerations. Its proximity to the Barumun River allowed for water transportation, which was the lifeline for trading agricultural products like rubber and spices in its time. The name "Baharan" itself refers to the area where this palace stands, which was once the center of government and noble residences.

#

Architecture and Construction Details

Architecturally, Baharan Palace displays a unique blend of traditional coastal Malay aesthetics with European colonial influences (Indische Empire Style). This was common in sultanate buildings in North Sumatra during that era, a result of diplomatic and economic interactions with the Dutch colonial authorities.

The main structure of the palace was initially dominated by high-quality wood (damar laut and ulin wood) and brick materials for the foundation and lower walls. The most prominent characteristic is the use of golden-yellow colors, symbolizing the noble status of the Malay sultanate. Large windows with wooden grilles were designed for optimal air circulation, considering the humid tropical climate.

The interior of the palace is divided into several functional rooms:

1. Balairung: The spacious main hall for receiving honored guests and holding traditional ceremonies.

2. Singgasana (Paminggiran): The sacred area where the sultan sat when presiding over official meetings.

3. Kamar Peraduan: The private chambers of the sultan's family.

4. Anjungan: The upper part of the building used to monitor traffic on the Barumun River.

#

Historical Significance and Key Events

Baharan Palace was not only an administrative center but also a cultural fortress. In its heyday, the palace was a center of diplomacy in the Labuhanbatu region. The Kotapinang Sultanate, under the control of Baharan Palace, had dynamic relationships with neighboring sultanates such as the Kualuh, Bilah, and Panei Sultanates.

A significant event related to this palace was its role during the Social Revolution in East Sumatra in 1946. This tragedy had a major impact on the physical preservation of the palace. The political turmoil of that time led to looting and damage to parts of the palace. Many historical documents, traditional artifacts, and sultanate treasures were lost or destroyed during that power transition period.

#

Key Figures and Periodical Connections

The figure most closely associated with the existence of Baharan Palace is Sultan Ma’moer Perkasa Alamsyah. He is known as a visionary leader who modernized the sultanate's governance without abandoning its traditional roots. Under his leadership, Kotapinang experienced an economic golden age through its plantations.

Additionally, the figure of Tengku Musthafa, who was part of the royal family, is often mentioned in local historical records as the guardian of the palace's honor during difficult times after independence. The palace's historical timeline spans from the Dutch colonial era, the Japanese occupation, to the early period of the Republic of Indonesia's independence, making it a witness to the transition from a traditional monarchy to a modern governance system.

#

Cultural and Religious Value

The people of Labuhanbatu Selatan view Baharan Palace as the "Great House" for the Malay identity of Kotapinang. Islamic values strongly colored life in this palace. This is evident from the presence of the Jami’ Kotapinang Mosque, located not far from the palace complex, demonstrating the concept of unity between "Adat and Syara" (religious law).

During every celebration of Islamic holidays or traditional ceremonies like "Tepung Tawar" (a ritual of blessing) and thanksgiving prayers, the palace became a central gathering point for the people and nobles. The harmonious relationship between the Sultan and his people was reflected in the local wisdom practiced in the Baharan area, where the value of deliberation was always prioritized.

#

Conservation Status and Restoration Efforts

Currently, the condition of Baharan Palace is very concerning compared to its glorious past. Most of the original physical structures have collapsed or been lost to time and lack of continuous maintenance over decades. What remains today generally consists of foundation ruins, remnants of walls, and building footprints that are still revered by the local community.

The Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency Government, through the Department of Culture and Tourism, has begun inventorying steps to designate this site as an official Cultural Heritage. Efforts to renovate or rebuild a replica of the palace are often discussed as a way to revive local pride and historical tourism potential. Restoration is not just about rebuilding the physical structure, but also about gathering scattered historical narratives through archaeological research and interviews with descendants of the heirs.

#

Unique Historical Facts

One unique fact about Baharan Palace is the existence of an underground tunnel system (according to local oral traditions) that supposedly connected the palace to escape routes or secret docks on the riverbank. Although this still requires further archaeological proof, this story adds a mystical nuance and highlights the defensive strategies of the Kotapinang Sultanate. Furthermore, the Baharan area was once a center of literacy, where ancient manuscripts written in Arab-Malay (Jawi) were produced by the sultanate's scholars and qadis.

#

Conclusion

Baharan Palace is an invaluable heritage for North Sumatra. Although its physical grandeur has faded, the historical spirit within it remains alive in the collective memory of the Labuhanbatu Selatan community. Protecting this site means respecting the roots of civilization that have shaped the social order of the Malay community on the eastern coast of Sumatra. As a historical destination, Baharan Palace offers a deep perspective on how power is built, maintained, and ultimately leaves an eternal legacy for future generations.