The Matan Kingdom Inscription: A Timeless Reminder

The Matan Kingdom Inscription: A Timeless Reminder: "Mustike Indah; Jaye Sempurne." What does it mean? Read the entire narrative! Photo doc. writer.

BORNEOTRAVEL - KETAPANG: If you ever find yourself traveling or on a work trip in West Kalimantan, be sure to make a stop in Ketapang. 

This charming destination is easily accessible, with just a 40-minute flight, making it a convenient choice for travelers. 

Alternatively, you can enjoy the scenic route via speedboat, which takes about 5 hours, or opt for a longer 10 to 12-hour journey by land.

Visit Ketapang's historic Matan Kingdom

Be sure to check out the site of one of the important historical landmarks in the Ketapang area, the Matan Kingdom. As mentioned in the narrative, there’s a sign in front of the Matan Kingdom palace.

That evening, as dusk approached, I was accompanied by Musa Narang, a friend since high school, on our way to the site of the ancient Matan Kingdom.

The scenery is truly beautiful. As usual, the center of the kingdom in ancient times was by the coast. The palace faces the river, which serves as both the heart and symbol of the kingdom.

If managed properly, this site could become a historical tourism destination that not only holds significant value but also offers various benefits. Particularly, it could generate income for the local economy through creative sectors like tourism if developed well.

That evening, the sun had dipped below the western horizon. Yet, the midday ruler still cast golden yellow hues over everything, like gold, coating the surface of the Pawan River. 

Boats whizzed back and forth, creating a rumbling sound that added to the enchanting atmosphere. 

There was a kind of magical aura emanating from the palace grounds, a feeling that could be sensed but not easily explained.

Palace inscription reminds us to remember

As I stepped into the palace, my eyes were drawn to the bright yellow inscription on the wall. This building was once a guard post. 

Before entering the palace courtyard, every guest had to be inspected and asked, "What is the purpose of your visit?"

What I read was:

Mustike Indah 
Jaye Sempurne  
Dilupakan pantang  
Dilangkah tulah  

Short and to the point, yet the message was clear.

Dilupakan pantang. What does this mean? It’s a reminder not to forget! To remember our history, our ancestors, their contributions, and their good deeds. Without them, we wouldn’t be who we are today.

Dilupakan pantang is a piece of wisdom. A reminder. It’s commonly used to remind someone of important facts or details that should not be overlooked.

Dilangkah tulah. Tulah means "misfortune," which can be caused by a curse due to bad deeds against one’s parents.

The depth and significance of these words carry an educational connotation.

Visiting the remnants of the Matan Kingdom, we not only step back into a bygone era but also engage with history to find its meaningful context in the present day.

-- Masri Sareb Putra