The Historical Milestone and Charm of the Monument of the First Hakka Landing in Pemangkat, West Kalimantan
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| Monument of the First Hakka |
| The Monument of the First Chinese Immigrant Landing in Pemangkat. Documented by the author. Masri Sareb PutraSenior writer, Generation of 2000 in Indonesian LiteratureThe atmosphere in Pemangkat, on the shores of the South China Sea, continues to flow as a living history intertwined with the journey of the first Chinese immigrants. This small town, once a sea that has now transformed into land, takes us through a corridor of time that weaves between Chinese and West Kalimantan cultures. Serving as a tourist destinationNot only serving as a tourist destination, Pemangkat is also a repository of historical heritage fascinating to researchers like myself, a senior member of the 2000 Indonesian Literature Generation. The presence of a majority of the ethnic Chinese population, especially the Hakka people (Khek), creates a cultural landscape that is rich and unique. Walking through the streets of Pemangkat, names of places like Shinam, Shisai, Lonam Kok, and Tiansho are not just ordinary toponyms. They are traces that connect Pemangkat to the cultural and natural heritage of the Hakka, signifying that every curve of this land tells a story of harmony between nature and humanity. Pemangkat is also adorned with temples that serve as spiritual centers for the local Chinese community. One of the most famous is Shin Mu Nyong on the peak of Elephant Mountain. This place is not only a site of worship but also a symbol of protection for fishermen navigating the open sea. This belief is deeply rooted in history, narrating how the people of Pemangkat have always been united with nature in their journeys. Pemangkat is a silent witnessYet, beyond the beauty of nature and cultural wealth, Pemangkat is a silent witness to the momentous historical event: the first landing of Chinese immigrants during the heyday of the Sambas Kingdom. For me, as a researcher seeking to feel the pulse of history, the Monument of the First Chinese Immigrant Landing in Pemangkat is an indispensable place. Standing in front of the monument, my imagination transports me to the past. I can envision groups of immigrants sailing wooden boats, braving waves and winds. They carried hope, courage, and determination to start a new life in a land far from China. Their journey, which may have taken weeks or even months, demonstrates resilience and the spirit of building bridges between two different cultures. Pemangkat with its unforgettable charmPemangkat, with its unforgettable charm, teaches us that history is not just a record of time but also a life lesson forged through journeys and courage. This small town, with all its nuances, invites us to reflect on the richness of culture, the unity among ethnicities, and the determination to face challenges of the past and future. Pemangkat, a hidden gem by the sea, offers more than meets the eye; it provides an experience that resonates with the soul, embracing us in its meaningful embrace. Pemangkat, as a sub-district in Sambas Regency, West Kalimantan, takes us further into the exploration of its historical heritage. The First Hakka Landing in PemangkatThe city's name, in Chinese 邦戛 (Pinyin: Bāngjiá; Hakka: Pang-kat), becomes a witness to the encounter of two cultures that shape its unique identity. From local folklore encompassing the name Pak Mangkat to the symbolic interpretation of "terangkat" as the transformation from sea to land, Pemangkat becomes a canvas telling stories of the past. During the peak of the Sambas Sultanate, Pemangkat served as a base for Chinese gold miners. This history created an inevitable influence, with many villages and areas in Pemangkat immortalized in Chinese, signifying a close connection between local culture and immigrants. Ethnic diversity in Pemangkat becomes another attraction, with a majority of Malays and Chinese united in harmony that radiates cultural richness. Truly, Pemangkat is a stage depicting the long journey of humanity, from the first landing of Chinese immigrants to the ethnic diversity shaping its community. With the Monument of the First Chinese Immigrant Landing as a silent witness, Pemangkat is not just a destination but a gateway into a corridor of time revealing the essence of journeys, courage, and coexistence with nature and culture. *) |
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