Pangkalan Bun history

The history of the city of Pangkalan Bun is inextricably linked to the heritage of the Kotawaringin Sultanate, once an influential principality on the island of Borneo. Located in the province of Central Kalimantan (Indonesia), this city has evolved from a simple river landing to the administrative centre of the region.

Foundation and First Mentions

The actual establishment of the city dates back to the early 19th century. Initially, the capital of the sultanate was located in Kotawaringin Lama; however, the ninth ruler, Sultan Imanuddin (reigned approx. 1805–1841), decided to move the centre of power closer to the river mouth. The new settlement was named "Pangkalan Buun," which translates as "Buun's Landing" (named after the first settler or the area). Over time, the name transformed into its modern pronunciation.

Key Factors of Development

• Geography and Logistics: The city grew on the banks of the Arut River, near its confluence with the Lamandau River. This location provided easy access to the Java Sea, which was critical for communication with the outside world.
• Political Status: Relocating the Sultan's residence turned the settlement into the political heart of West Kotawaringin. The construction of the palace cemented the city's status as a capital.
• Trade Hub: Thanks to a convenient harbour, the city became the main point for collecting and shipping goods from the island's interior, controlling the flow of resources.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of the early period was built on exporting the jungle's natural riches: valuable timber, rattan, resins, and gold. The cultural landscape was shaped by the traditions of the Banjar people and local Dayak tribes.

The symbol of that era became Istana Kuning ("The Yellow Palace"), constructed from "ironwood" (ulin). It served not only as the home for the monarch but also as the centre of religious and social life, around which residential quarters on stilts expanded along the river.

Major Historical Milestones

• Early 19th Century (approx. 1811): Sultan Imanuddin moves the capital of the sultanate from Kotawaringin Lama to a new settlement on the Arut River, which would later grow into the city of Pangkalan Bun.
• 1935: The adjacent Tanjung Puting area is declared a nature reserve, laying the foundation for the region's future status as a centre for eco-tourism.
• 1942: During World War II, the city, like all of Indonesia, falls under Japanese occupation.
• January 14, 1946: Near the city (in the Sambi area), the country's first-ever airborne operation by republican troops takes place in the struggle for independence.
• October 3, 1959: Pangkalan Bun is officially established as the administrative centre of the newly formed West Kotawaringin Regency.
• 1982: The Tanjung Puting reserve receives National Park status, stimulating the development of tourism infrastructure in the city.
• 1986: A fire destroys the original historic building of the Istana Kuning palace ("The Yellow Palace").
• 2000: A large-scale reconstruction of Istana Kuning begins, aimed at restoring the cultural heritage of the sultanate.
• December 2014: The city's airport and port become the main headquarters for the international search operation following the crash of AirAsia flight QZ8501.
• 2019: Completion of the terminal expansion at Iskandar Airport to accommodate the increasing flow of tourists visiting the jungles of Borneo.

Stages of Transformation: From River Landing to Tourism Hub

The development of the city of Pangkalan Bun occurred in leaps, influenced by shifting economic eras and administrative decisions. Each stage left its mark on the architecture and way of life in this corner of Central Kalimantan province (Indonesia).

• Relocation of the Sultanate Capital (Early 19th Century)
  The decision to make the settlement by the Arut River the main residence of the Kotawaringin rulers was a city-forming event. The construction of the Istana Kuning palace not only defined the political centre of the region but also set the structure of urban development, oriented towards the river and the palace.
• Formation of a Trade Port
  Thanks to its advantageous location near the confluence of rivers, the city turned into a key logistics hub. This stimulated the development of coastal infrastructure ("waterfront city"), where warehouses and trading stalls formed the economic backbone of the city, connecting the island's hinterlands with the outside world.
• Gaining Administrative Status (1959)
  Designating the city as the capital of the West Kotawaringin Regency led to the appearance of an administrative quarter, schools, and hospitals. This event triggered the process of urbanization and the expansion of the city boundaries inland, reducing the reliance on development solely along the shoreline.
• The "Timber Boom" Era (1970–1990s)
  A period of active logging led to sharp economic growth and a population influx. Although this time is associated with ecological challenges, it was "timber money" that allowed for the construction of the first paved roads, bridges, and the modernization of urban utilities.
• Modernization of Iskandar Airport
  The expansion and renovation of the only airport in the region capable of handling jet aircraft opened the city to a mass flow of guests. The airport became a driver for the development of the hotel business and service sector, connecting the isolated region with Jakarta and other major centres.
• Becoming a World Eco-tourism Centre
  Recognition of the uniqueness of Tanjung Puting National Park reoriented the city's economy. Pangkalan Bun transformed into a service hub for international tourists, leading to the appearance of quality hotels, restaurants, and the development of the hospitality industry.
• Agro-industrial Transition (Modernity)
  The development of oil palm plantations in the city's vicinity created a new economic base. This contributed to the improvement of the road network connecting the city with the periphery and attracted investment in the processing sector and trade.
• Cultural Renaissance (2000s)
  The restoration of the burnt Istana Kuning palace became a symbol of returning to roots. This project turned the historic centre into an important landmark, harmoniously complementing eco-tourism with a cultural and educational component.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Evolution

The urban planning history of the city of Pangkalan Bun is a clear example of how a settlement changes its orientation from water to land. The architectural landscape here is formed not by a succession of European styles, but by adaptation to the tropical climate and a transition from traditional materials to modern technologies.

Traditional Architecture: The Era of "River Civilization"

Historically, the city developed along the banks of the Arut River. The earliest and most distinctive layer of development is represented by wooden architecture characteristic of the river communities of Kalimantan.

• Style: Folk wooden architecture (vernacular architecture).
• Characteristic Features: Houses on high stilts ("rumah panggung"), protecting dwellings from tides and floods. Use of unique ulin wood ("ironwood"), which does not rot in water for decades.
• Landmarks: The historic district on the riverbank (Waterfront City). Here, one can still see traditional houses with facades facing the water, as the river long served as the main "street" of the city.

Royal Heritage: Banjar Architecture

The central element of the historic centre is the palace complex, reflecting the cultural influence of the sultanate and the architectural traditions of the Banjar people.

• Style: Traditional palace style of South Kalimantan.
• Characteristic Features: Peaked roofs, spacious verandas, yellow colour (symbol of royal power), and the absence of nails in the original structures.
• Landmark: Istana Kuning (The Yellow Palace). Although the current building is a reconstruction, it accurately reproduces the structure of the monarch's residence: from the audience hall to the inner chambers. It is the only example of monumental wooden architecture of such scale in the city.

Modern Stage: Functionalism and Inland Expansion

From the second half of the 20th century, with the development of roads, Indonesia began actively modernizing its cities. Pangkalan Bun started to expand inland, forming a new administrative and commercial centre.

• Style: Modern tropical functionalism and typical "ruko" (shophouse) development.
• Characteristic Features: Use of concrete, glass, and metal. Buildings become lower and wider, orienting towards automotive avenues rather than the riverbed.
• Landmarks: Bundaran Pancasila (Pancasila Roundabout). This district has become the symbol of the new city with wide boulevards, modern parks, and monuments, marking the centre of modern public life, removed from the historic waterfront.

The history and modernity of the city of Pangkalan Bun are inextricably linked with the names of rulers, independence fighters, and scientists. These individuals not only shaped the appearance of the city but also brought fame to this corner of Indonesia on the international stage.

Historical and Cultural Figures

• Sultan Imanuddin
  Ninth Sultan of Kotawaringin (reigned approx. 1805–1841)
  A key figure in the city's history. It was he who decided to move the capital of the sultanate from Kotawaringin Lama to a new location closer to the mouth of the Arut River, which subsequently became the city of Pangkalan Bun. By his order, the Istana Kuning ("Yellow Palace") was built. The city's main public hospital bears his name today.
• Buun
  Local resident from the Dayak tribe (early 19th century)
  A semi-legendary figure who gave the city its name. According to legends, "Pangkalan Buun" means "Buun's Landing". Buun was the owner of a house by the river where Sultan Imanuddin often stayed during his travels. This place became the starting point for the foundation of the new capital.
• Pangeran Adipati Antakusuma
  Founder of the Kotawaringin Sultanate (17th century)
  Although he ruled in the old capital, his legacy is the foundation of local culture. The son of the Sultan of Banjar, he founded a dynasty that ruled the region for over 300 years. His descendants turned Pangkalan Bun into a thriving commercial and political centre.

Heroes and Modern Leaders

• Iskandar
  Air Force officer and independence hero (1928–1947)
  A lieutenant who died during the Indonesian War of Independence. He was the commander of the first Air Force base in the region. The city's airport (Bandara Iskandar) is named in his honour, serving today as the main gateway for tourists arriving in Borneo.
• Dr. Birutė Mary Galdikas
  Primatologist, anthropologist, founder of OFI (since 1971)
  A world-renowned scientist who has dedicated her life to the study and protection of orangutans. Although not originally from Pangkalan Bun, her work in Tanjung Puting National Park has made the city a global centre for eco-tourism. She resides in the vicinity of the city (Pasir Panjang) and is an honorary citizen of the local community.
• Haji Abdul Rasyid
  Entrepreneur and philanthropist
  One of the most influential businessmen in the region and a native of these parts. Founder of a major agro-industrial group that played a significant role in the economic development of Central Kalimantan. Known for his charitable projects and contribution to the development of urban infrastructure.
• Sultan Alidin Sukma Alamsyah
  15th Sultan of Kotawaringin (modern era)
  A guardian of traditions who played an important role in the revival of the sultanate's cultural heritage in the 21st century. Under him, restoration works on historical monuments and the maintenance of traditional ceremonies attracting tourists were revitalized.