Datuk Laksamana and the Betrayal at Tanjung Jati
Lancang Kuning >> Edisi Bahasa Indonesia
Folklore from Riau
In a coastal village called Bukit Batu in Bengkalis, the sea breeze carried the salty aroma and whispers of the waves. Datuk Laksamana, a wise and respected leader, stood on the shore, gazing intently at the ocean.
One afternoon, Datuk Laksamana summoned his two most trusted commanders, Commander Umar and Commander Hasan, to discuss a troubling matter that disturbed the village’s peace. The two commanders gathered immediately, ready to receive their orders.
Datuk Laksamana: “There is troubling news. Pirates have been disturbing our fishermen near Senggoro. This cannot be allowed to continue. Commander Umar, I assign you to lead a mission to Tanjung Jati to drive these pirates away.”
Commander Umar, known for his bravery, nodded firmly, prepared to undertake the mission.
Commander Umar: “Your command will be carried out, Datuk. I will set out immediately.”
However, behind his polite smile, Commander Hasan harbored malicious intentions. He stepped forward with a hint of hesitation.
Commander Hasan: “Datuk, perhaps I should accompany Umar. This journey might be difficult and could require more than one commander’s strength.”
Datuk Laksamana shook his head slowly.
Datuk Laksamana: “No need, Hasan. You will stay here to guard the village. Umar is capable of completing this task alone.”
Commander Hasan only offered a faint smile, though his heart was filled with disappointment. He had planned everything to remove Umar and get closer to Umar's wife, Zubaidah—a woman renowned for her beauty in the village.
Hasan's Evil Plan
As Commander Umar prepared to depart, Zubaidah approached him with a worried expression.
Zubaidah: “Must you leave so soon, my love? The sea is full of dangers, and I fear for your safety.”
Umar smiled warmly, holding Zubaidah’s hand.
Commander Umar: “Do not worry, Zubaidah. I will return soon. This is just a small task for our safety.”
After their final embrace, Umar set off for Tanjung Jati, unaware of the betrayal waiting behind. Once Umar left, Commander Hasan approached Zubaidah with his sinister intentions.
Commander Hasan: “Zubaidah, you deserve more than a husband who leaves you so often for duty. With me, you would have a much better life.”
Zubaidah stepped back in disgust, her voice firm and unyielding.
Zubaidah: “I am loyal to my husband, Hasan! Your words are nothing but poison. Leave me and do not bother me again!”
Hearing Zubaidah’s resolute rejection, Hasan's anger grew. Feeling humiliated, he decided to destroy everything if he couldn’t have Zubaidah by fair means.
The Launch of Lancang Kuning
A few days later, the royal ship, Lancang Kuning, was to be launched into the sea. The villagers gathered to witness this important moment. However, something strange happened. Lancang Kuning refused to move from its place.
The crowd began to murmur anxiously, while Datuk Laksamana looked puzzled. Seeing the situation, Commander Hasan stepped forward, feigning concern.
Commander Hasan: “Datuk, perhaps something is missing. In our tradition, sometimes offerings are required for great endeavors to succeed.”
Datuk Laksamana looked at Hasan with curiosity, but the pressing situation demanded a decision.
Commander Hasan: “There is one more thing that could be offered, Datuk. An offering. With this, the ship will surely move.”
Datuk Laksamana nodded in agreement, and the symbolic offering was made. Afterward, the ship moved slowly and eventually launched smoothly into the sea.
Commander Umar's Return
Shortly after the launch, Commander Umar returned from Tanjung Jati. He hurried to his home to find Zubaidah, but was greeted by silence. With growing concern, he began to investigate what had happened. Commander Hasan, who had prepared the false accusation, approached Umar with a seemingly sympathetic expression.
Commander Hasan: “Umar... I am deeply sorry. There has been a major misunderstanding while you were away.”
Umar, sensing something was amiss, began to dig deeper. Eventually, he uncovered evidence that Commander Hasan had manipulated the events surrounding the ship launch.
Revealing the Truth
In a calm but firm confrontation, Umar faced Hasan in front of Datuk Laksamana and the village elders.
Commander Umar: “Hasan has betrayed us. He used our traditions as a pretext for personal gain.”
Cornered, Hasan could no longer hide his deceit. The village elders decided to expel Hasan from the community as a form of traditional punishment. This decision was not a physical punishment but an exile filled with shame and regret.
Referece: riaumagz.com
.jpeg)
Moral Message:
Betrayal and deceit may lead to one's downfall. Honesty, loyalty, and integrity are valued above personal gain, and those who act with malicious intent will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. True leadership and respect are earned through righteous actions and loyalty to one's duties and principles.
Did you know?
In the historical context of maritime transport, the term Lancang referred to both small boats and large ships, illustrating its versatility as a water transport vehicle. The Lancang played a crucial role in the seafaring traditions of the past, connecting various regions through waterways.
The word Kuning translates to "yellow" in Indonesian, which was often associated with royalty and grandeur. Thus, the name Lancang Kuning literally means "Yellow Lancang" and reflects the ship's esteemed status and the symbolic significance of the color yellow as a mark of regal distinction.
In the Riau region, Lancang Kuning is not just a historical vessel but a cherished symbol of local heritage and pride. The yellow ship represents the region's historical greatness and its enduring cultural legacy. It stands as an emblem of the Riau people’s maritime history and accomplishments.
Moreover, Lancang Kuning is celebrated in Riau's cultural expressions, including music and festivities, where it serves as both a symbol and a song that reflects the region's pride and historical significance.
So next time you hear about the Lancang Kuning, remember that it’s more than just a ship; it’s a vibrant piece of Riau’s rich maritime heritage and a proud symbol of its cultural identity!
Source pustakaarsip.kamparkab.go.id
Other story of Lancang:
 |
| The Symbol of Riau |
Lancang Kuning (Song)
By: Sulaiman Sjafe'i
Source diadona.id
Yellow Lancang
Yellow Lancang sails at night, oh
Sails at night
Yellow Lancang
Yellow Lancang sails at night, oh
Sails at night
The bow heads
The bow heads towards the deep sea
The bow heads
The bow heads towards the deep sea
Yellow Lancang sails at night
Yellow Lancang sails at night
If the captain
If the captain doesn’t understand
If the captain
If the captain doesn’t understand
Doesn’t understand
The sign of the ship
The sign of the ship will sink
The sign of the ship
The sign of the ship will sink
Yellow Lancang sails at night
Yellow Lancang sails at night
Yellow Lancang
Yellow Lancang faces the storm
Faces the storm
Yellow Lancang
Yellow Lancang faces the storm
Faces the storm
The steering rope
The steering rope is twisted threefold*
The steering rope
The steering rope is twisted threefold*
Yellow Lancang sails at night
Yellow Lancang sails at night
---
*The term “twisted threefold” here refers to the three important elements in Malay culture and tradition: leaders or wise people, customary elders, and religious scholars.*
Source: kompasiana.com
Please Read More Stories!
No comments:
Post a Comment