Cultural activists are raising concerns over the exclusion of Sukabumi City and Regency from the Kirab Budaya Milangkala Tatar Sunda. Abah Alam, Head of Padepokan Dadalipati Nusantara, has described the omission as a disregard for Sukabumi’s significant role in the long history of Sundanese civilization.
A Vital Link to the Pajajaran Kingdom
Abah Alam argues that discussing Tatar Sunda without including Sukabumi is comparable to discussing the Pajajaran Kingdom without mentioning its food source. He describes Sukabumi as the “heart of Pajajaran,” asserting that its role was vital and inseparable from the region’s history.
During the Pajajaran era, Sukabumi served as the leuit Pajajaran, or the rice granary that supported the food needs of the royal center in Pakuan.
Beyond agriculture, the region acted as a critical trade artery. It connected the interior to the southern coast, specifically Palabuhanratu, with the Cikundul and Jampang areas serving as strategic distribution routes for natural products.
Defense, Spirituality and Political Transition
The geography of the region also provided strategic military advantages. Mount Gede Pangrango and Mount Salak functioned as natural fortresses protecting the center of the kingdom.
Sukabumi was also a spiritual hub, characterized by numerous kabuyutan and mandala resi. Following the fall of Pajajaran in 1579, the area became a corridor for nobles fleeing toward Sumedang.
As the era of Sumedang Larang began, Sukabumi functioned as a border zone between the powers of Sumedang, Banten, and Cirebon. By the 17th century, the region came under the authority of Mataram.
Administrative Evolution
The foundation of Sukabumi’s formal government began around the 1670s with the appointment of R.A. Wira Tanu Datar I by Mataram.
During the colonial period, the region underwent further changes. In 1811, under the Raffles era, Sukabumi was separated from Cianjur, eventually becoming its own official administrative territory in 1870.
Potential Implications
The public criticism from cultural figures suggests that the current framing of the Kirab Budaya may be viewed as incomplete. This disagreement could lead to calls for a revision of how the event acknowledges regional contributions.
Future celebrations may see a possible shift in coordination to include Sukabumi, which could help reconcile the perspectives of cultural activists and event organizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Sukabumi considered the “heart of Pajajaran”?
Sukabumi served as the leuit Pajajaran (rice granary) that supported the food needs of the royal center in Pakuan, and it provided natural defense through Mount Gede Pangrango and Mount Salak.
What was Sukabumi’s role in trade?
It was a critical trade route connecting the interior to the southern coast, particularly Palabuhanratu, with strategic distribution occurring in the Cikundul and Jampang areas.
When did Sukabumi become a separate administrative region?
Sukabumi was separated from Cianjur in 1811 during the Raffles era and officially became its own administrative territory in 1870.
Do you believe cultural festivals should prioritize historical accuracy over current administrative planning?
