Ba' Binuang Airport, Krayan Tengah, and Why It’s Named "Samuel Tipa Padan"

Honor to whom it is due: The sign at Ba' Binuang Airport displays the name Samuel Tipa Padan and his photo. This is not only a tribute to his contributions but also a lasting commemoration of his name. Photo credit: Diono Daud.

This airport, a vital link to this remote region, stands as a testament to his significant impact.

Ba' Binuang Airport serves as the primary gateway

Ba' Binuang Airport serves as the primary gateway to Krayan Tengah, facilitating access to an otherwise isolated area. Its smooth, paved runway is a crucial asset, making travel to and from the region more convenient and efficient. 

The airport is named after Samuel Tipa Padan to honor his substantial contributions to the area’s development. 

By naming the airport after him, the local community recognizes his pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity and fostering growth.

Samuel Tipa Padan’s efforts were instrumental in making this essential infrastructure a reality. His dedication has not only improved access but also supported broader regional development, connecting people and driving progress in this remote part of North Kalimantan.

He was a dedicated teacher, known for his discipline and hard work, with a passion for humanitarian efforts. But who exactly was Samuel Tipa Padan, and why does the airport in Ba' Binuang, usually frequented by MAF Mission aircraft, bear his name?

Samuel Tipa Padan: a man for others

Samuel Tipa Padan was born in Binuang, Krayan Tengah, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan, in 1935. He received his education at the SGB/SGA in Tenggarong from 1948 to 1951.

Samuel Tipa Padan. Photo credit: Big family archives.

From 1954 to 1956, he taught in Long Bawan, and from 1956 to 1961, he served as a teacher in Pa' Upan. He returned to Binuang in 1961, where he continued teaching until 1970, before moving to Tanjung Lapang/Malinau, where he taught from 1970 to 1975.

In 1975, Samuel Tipa Padan transitioned to a role as a teacher and school supervisor in Tarakan, a position he held until 1991. 

Alongside his extensive and dedicated educational career, Samuel Tipa Padan was also involved in infrastructure development. In 1962, he played a key role in planning and acquiring land for the construction of an airport in Binuang.

When the land for the Ba' Binuang airport was secured, Samuel Tipa Padan mobilized the local community to level and prepare a 300 x 500 meter area using hand tools and manual labor. The locals worked tirelessly and enthusiastically every day, contributing selflessly.

Thanks to the hard work of the Ba’ Binuang community, the airport was eventually ready for use by MAF Mission aircraft. Samuel Tipa Padan's dedication to this project not only improved connectivity for the local community but also highlighted the spirit of cooperation and commitment to community development.

In that year, Samuel Tipa Padan, a young man concerned about his community's conditions, fought to bring about change. 

Driven by his determination and enthusiasm, he proposed the construction of a pioneer airstrip in Kampung Ba Binuang, now known as Desa Binuang. Despite some resistance, many supported his idea.

Samuel did not give up. Despite being limited by job transfers and resource constraints, he persistently advanced the plan. 

Together with community leaders, they identified an ideal location for the airport after surveying and preparing the land. Initially intended as a helipad for military logistics, their efforts continued.

Ba' Binuang airport deserves to honor his name

Through voluntary work and simple coordination, the community came together to build the runway. Their efforts culminated in the establishment and inauguration of the S. TIPA PADAN BINUANG Airport. 

The historic site, also used for defense purposes, was sacrificed for this development.

Daud Ipid was chosen as the coordinator. Along with other community members, he took measurements and organized a lottery to decide who would handle each task until completion. All work was done voluntarily, without payment.

Samuel's achievements were not limited to physical construction. He also inspired his community to overcome isolation. His name has been honored to reflect his dedication, spirit, and resilience in effecting meaningful change.

According to Dr. Yansen TP, M.Si., the first son of Samuel Tipa Padan and Roeslin Betung, STP, there are at least two important lessons to remember from his father. First, STP advised, "If you think it’s good, do it! Don’t procrastinate." 

Second, to do good, having broad knowledge is essential. "To gain broad knowledge, completing education to the highest level is crucial," he said.

In addition to these lessons, STP's legacy includes his emphasis on values and discipline. This was highlighted by his daughter Flora, who personally experienced how her father emphasized discipline. 

Despite being known for his strictness and discipline, Flora shared that beneath it all, STP deeply and sincerely loved his family.

-- Masri Sareb Putra