Pantak Pedagi, Dayak Art, and Artifacts in Ketapang that You Must Visit

This is the Dayak tradition in Ketapang of erecting a 5-meter tall wooden monument called Pantak Pedagi.

BORNEOTRAVEL - KETAPANG: If you ever find yourself traveling or on business in Pontianak, West Borneo, make sure to set aside some time for a visit to Ketapang. 

A short 40-minute flight will get you from Pontianak to Ketapang, where you can explore a world rich in culture and history. 

Upon arrival, head to the Kepatihan Jaga Pati located on the outskirts of the city. Here, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of Dayak art and artifacts that have been meticulously preserved over time. 

One highlight that you definitely shouldn’t miss is the Pantak Padagi, an important cultural and historical monument.

If you understand Indonesian, watch this video: PROSESI PENUH NUANSA #pantakpadagi #ponti' #ritual #tradisi #dayak #shorts

In addition to its cultural significance, Ketapang is also the gateway to the stunning Borneo rainforest. This verdant expanse is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, offering a truly immersive nature experience. 

As you venture into the rainforest, you’ll be greeted by an incredible variety of flora and fauna, many of which are unique to this part of the world. 

The rainforest's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems provide a spectacular backdrop for any adventure, making your visit to Ketapang even more memorable.

To ensure the history of the Hulu Aik Kingdom

During the inauguration ceremony of Kepatihan Jaga Pati in Ketapang on May 4, 2024, Patih Jaga Pati Raden Cendaga Pintu Bumi Jaga Banua Alexander Wilyo emphasized the critical importance of documenting the history of the Hulu Aik Kingdom. His speech highlighted the efforts to preserve and record the kingdom’s rich heritage.

Encouraged by Masri Sareb Putra, a dedicated Dayak literacy advocate now based in Jakarta, Wilyo underscored the need for thorough documentation, exploration, and preservation of the Hulu Aik Kingdom's history. 

Wilyo stated, “To ensure the history of the Hulu Aik Kingdom is well-documented, we have embarked on a project to write and preserve the results of our historical reconstruction. 

This kingdom, currently led by its 51st king, Petrus Singa Bansa, encompasses the area known as Laman Sembilan Domong Sepuluh.”

As part of this ambitious project, a range of narratives, photographs, documents, and videos have been created and published. 

A notable example is the video titled "The Establishment of Ponti' or Pantak Padagi at the Kepatihan Jaga Pati Hall, Laman Sembilan Domong Sepuluh, Hulu Aik Kingdom in Ketapang," filmed on May 3, 2024, just a day before the official inauguration.

The historic event of erecting the Ponti' or Pantak Padagi

This video captures the historic event of erecting the Ponti' or Pantak Padagi at the Kepatihan Jaga Pati Hall, a revered site for the Hulu Aik Kingdom. 

The ceremony held at this historically significant location honors the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Hulu Aik Kingdom.

Through such documentation efforts, the Hulu Aik Kingdom is not only preserved in historical records but also shared with a wider audience, enhancing public awareness of its valuable and vital cultural heritage, which is crucial for ongoing preservation.

- Rama Asia

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