The Tampun Juah site sheds light on the past of the Dayak people and their cultural identity : The Dayak Did Not Come From Anywhere Else(1)

The historic site of Tampun Juah, nestled in the Segumon area of Upper Sekayam, continues to stand as a silent witness to the deep cultural and historical roots of the Dayak people. The area exudes a sense of reverence, surrounded by the natural beauty of Kalimantan's landscape. Photo credit: Sabinus Gregory

Preamble: 

The Dayak people are intrinsically tied to the land of Borneo, their roots stretching deep into its history. Previous articles on this news and information channel have delved into the origins of humanity on Borneo, tracing back 40,000 years through carbon-dated findings in the Niah Caves. This time, the editorial team invited Masri Sareb Putra, M.A.—an internationally recognized ethnologist and researcher of Dayak heritage—to craft a series of narratives about the ancestral homeland of the Dayak people in West Kalimantan, with the exception of the Kanayatn subgroup. This homeland is the historic site of Tampun Juah.

This is what we call "history"—an account supported by four essential criteria of historical verification:

1. Who were the key figures involved?
2. Where and when did the events take place?
3. What significant events occurred?
4. What historical evidence supports these claims? Such evidence includes inscriptions, ceramic artifacts, and other archaeological findings.

The Tampun Juah site sheds light on the past of the Dayak people and their cultural identity, providing invaluable insight into their history and heritage.

Tampun Juah holds a prominent place in the historical narrative of West Kalimantan

Nestled in the Segumon area of Upper Sekayam, Tampun Juah holds a prominent place in the historical narrative of West Kalimantan. Revered by many indigenous groups in the region—except for the Kanayatn people—it is celebrated as the "original land," a cultural and ancestral cornerstone.  

Situated near the border of West Kalimantan and Sarawak, Malaysia, Tampun Juah is a site of profound historical and cultural significance. Its strategic location underscores its role as a bridge between communities, fostering deep connections that have endured for centuries.  

Historically, West Kalimantan, Sarawak, and Brunei share a deeply intertwined past. These regions once formed a cohesive geographical and cultural entity, bound by shared traditions, trade, and waves of migration that shaped their collective identity. These interactions forged familial ties and cultural exchanges that continue to resonate today.  

Tampun Juah also holds a special place in local art and storytelling

Tampun Juah also holds a special place in local art and storytelling. A Bidayuh-language song titled "Tampun Juah," created by Ketapang artist Thomas Tion, beautifully narrates the origins of the Dayak people on the island of Borneo. This song stands as a poignant reminder of how cultural heritage informs and enriches collective identity.  

The history of Sanggau is deeply connected to Tampun Juah. According to Lontaan’s 1975 account, the name “Sanggau” is derived from a tree that grew at the mouth of a river, marking the spot where Dara Nante’s fleet docked as she searched for her husband, Babai Cinga. This epic journey is steeped in myth, including obstacles that Dara Nante overcame through divine guidance.  

Babai Cinga, a native Dayak from Tampun Juah, and Dara Nante, a descendant of the Majapahit royal line from Sukadana, are central figures in this legendary tale. While Babai Cinga’s role often fades into the shadow of Dara Nante’s celebrated legacy, their story symbolizes the union of local and external influences, blending into a rich cultural tapestry.  

Their legend also reflects the resilience of the local people, who found ways to navigate natural challenges while drawing on traditional wisdom and solidarity. Today, their legacy endures in the traditions, songs, and stories passed down through generations, serving as a living testament to the enduring spirit and interconnectedness of the region.  

Babai Cinga: A Central Figure in the Foundation of the Sanggau Kingdom

In the historical lineage of the Sanggau Kingdom in West Kalimantan, Babai Cinga is firmly recorded as the husband of Daranante, the kingdom's founder. The tale of their romantic meeting will be narrated in due course. 

What remains indisputable is that Babai Cinga is not merely a historical figure in the context of the Sanggau Kingdom but also a pivotal character in the broader history of the Dayak people in West Kalimantan.

Inscriptions and original documents serve as critical evidence in uncovering historical truths. Babai Cinga’s name is explicitly recorded in the lineage of the Sanggau Sultanate, affirming his role as a key figure in its establishment. Illustration: Document of the Sanggau Kingdom.

According to oral traditions passed down through generations, Babai Cinga resided in Tampun Juah. This historic site, now located in the Segumon area of Upper Sekayam, lies not far from Noyan Subdistrict in Sanggau Regency, near the border with Sarawak, Malaysia.

Inscriptions and original documents serve as critical evidence in uncovering historical truths. Babai Cinga’s name is explicitly recorded in the lineage of the Sanggau Sultanate, affirming his role as a key figure in its establishment. His place in the genealogical records not only solidifies his historical presence but also highlights his significance in the broader narrative of Dayak history in West Kalimantan.

Through these authentic sources, Babai Cinga's contributions and his connection to the Sanggau Kingdom are preserved. They serve as a bridge between the past and present understandings of the region's rich cultural heritage.

--- Masri Sareb Putra