Makam Datu Pamulutan

Origin and Identity of Datu Pamulutan

The name "Datu Pamulutan" is not his real name but a title referring to the figure's expertise or hobby during his lifetime. His real name was Sultan Abdurrahman, a great scholar with a spiritual connection to the Banjar Sultanate. The word "Pamulutan" comes from the Banjar language word "pulut," which means tree sap used for catching birds.

It is said that he enjoyed bird trapping (memulut) on the island that is now his final resting place. The uniqueness of Datu Pamulutan's persona lies in his ability to conceal his true identity as a great scholar behind the simplicity of a bird trapper. He lived from the 18th to the early 19th century, a period when the Banjar Sultanate was experiencing high political dynamics due to Dutch colonialism.

Site Architecture and Layout

The Makam Datu Pamulutan site is located on the summit of a small island called Pulau Datu. To reach the tomb, visitors must ascend dozens of stairs that cut through the small hill on the island. The tomb's architecture reflects a blend of local Banjar wisdom and coastal Islamic influences.

The main building of the tomb is a wooden cungkup (pavilion) that has undergone several renovations. Inside the cungkup is the main tombstone, covered with yellow cloth, a color that in Banjar tradition symbolizes glory and honor for saints or sacred figures. The original tombstone was made of ulin wood (ironwood), which is very strong and resistant to extreme coastal weather. The building's construction uses a stilt system to adapt to the hilly terrain and maintain air circulation amidst the sea's humidity.

Historical Significance and Related Events

Historically, Datu Pamulutan's presence in the Tanjung Dewa area is closely linked to the strategy of Islamic da'wah (preaching) in the coastal region. At that time, the Tanah Laut region was a border area inhabited by people who still held strong animistic beliefs. Datu Pamulutan used a cultural approach in his preaching.

One unique fact recorded in the local community's oral tradition is the relationship between Datu Pamulutan and Datu Pelaihari. Both were pillars of Islam's spread in the Tanah Laut region. This tomb also marks the boundary of the Banjar Sultanate's influence on the southern coast of Kalimantan. Pulau Datu itself strategically served as a sea observation point to monitor the movement of foreign ships traversing the Java Sea towards the mouth of the Barito River.

Role in the Spread of Islam in Tanah Laut

Datu Pamulutan is known as a figure possessing karamah (miracles). However, beyond the supernatural aspect, his concrete role was in building a Muslim community around Panyipatan. He taught Islamic law in a very subtle way, so that the hardy coastal communities could accept Islamic teachings without coercion.

The existence of this tomb proves that the spread of Islam in South Kalimantan was not only centered in Martapura or Banjarmasin but also reached remote areas on the coast of Tanah Laut. This site is authentic evidence of the intellectual migration of Banjar scholars to the southern region to expand the sultanate's da'wah reach.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

As a Cultural Heritage Site, Makam Datu Pamulutan receives serious attention from the Tanah Laut Regency Government and the Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation (BPCB). Restorations are carried out periodically, especially on the ferry dock and the stair access to the hilltop. This is done because sea abrasion and extreme weather often threaten the building structures on the island.

The community of Tanjung Dewa Village also voluntarily acts as caretakers (juru kunci) who maintain cleanliness and etiquette in the tomb area. Although modernization has been applied to the floor and roof for the comfort of pilgrims, the basic form and location of the tombstone are maintained according to their original condition to preserve their historical value.

Cultural and Religious Value for the Community

To this day, Makam Datu Pamulutan remains a primary religious magnet in South Kalimantan. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit, especially on major Islamic holidays or during the "Haul" (commemoration of a figure's death). The tradition of pilgrimage to Pulau Datu has become part of the cultural identity of the Tanah Laut community.

The philosophical value that can be drawn from Datu Pamulutan's history is about humility. Although he was a great figure, he preferred to be known as "Pamulut" (bird trapper), teaching that a person's glory lies not in their position or great name, but in their devotion to God and fellow human beings.

Unique Fact Conclusion

There is one historical fact that is rarely known, which is the connection of this tomb's location to maritime history. Pulau Datu, where this tomb is located, was once a stopover for sailors before continuing their long journey across the Java Sea. This makes Makam Datu Pamulutan a symbol of protection for fishermen and sailors in the Tanah Laut region.

With its strong historical background, iconic island architecture, and spiritual influence that is still felt today, Makam Datu Pamulutan stands firm as a living monument to Islamic history in South Kalimantan. This site is not just a heritage of the past but a moral compass for future generations in Tanah Laut.