Indonesia
The first speaker in the Faculty of Cultural Studies (FCS) Universitas Brawijaya (UB) Guest Lecture for Peking University discussing the history of Indonesia and its cultural heritage was held, thoroughly exploring the origin of the name Indonesia to the role of ancient civilizations in shaping national identity. The first guest lecture and interesting discussion session were delivered by Yohanes Padmo Adi Hungroho, S.S., M.Hum., lecturer of the Study Program of Japanese Literature FCS UB, on Friday (1/24/2025).
This discussion presented a long history, starting from the term “Indonesia,” first introduced by James Richardson Logan in 1850, to the legacy of the kingdoms of the archipelago.
The name Indonesia comes from a combination of the words “Indo” (which refers to India) and “Nesos” (islands). In colonial documents, the region was called Indische Archipel (Indian Archipelago), l’Archipel Indien, or Oost Indie (East Indies). Interestingly, the designation “Indonesia” also has roots in other histories and cultures, as found in Chinese chronicles named Nan-hai and in Arabic terms known as Jaza’ir al-Jawi (Java Island).
The term Nusantara, found in Empu Prapanca’s Kakawin Nagarakretagama from the era of the Majapahit Kingdom (1365 AD), means “the islands in between.” The concept was initially introduced by the Singhasari Kingdom, Majapahit’s predecessor, during the reign of King Kertanegara (1268-1292). One important milestone was the Nusantara’s success in resisting the invasion attempt of the Yuan Dynasty (Mongols) under Kublai Khan in 1293.
The discussion also highlighted the glories of Indonesia’s ancient kingdoms, which formed the foundation of the nation’s history and culture. Some of the essential civilizations reviewed included (1) the Kutai Kingdom (399-1635 AD), located in East Kalimantan, known as one of the oldest kingdoms in Indonesia; (2) Tarumanegara (IV-VII centuries), located in West Java, recorded in Chinese chronicles, and (3) the Majapahit Kingdom, which reached its peak with the vision of uniting the archipelago under one rule.
The event emphasized how rich and complex Indonesia’s history is, involving not only various local tribes and cultures but also influenced by international diplomacy and trade relations since ancient times. By understanding these historical roots, we can better appreciate our national identity and preserve our cultural heritage for future generations. [dts/PR FCS]