KUCHING: The Sarawak Museum Department has been called upon to conduct an in-depth study on Santubong’s historical role as a key international trading hub as well as the origins of its name.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that ancient maps and trade routes indicate the existence of an active economic network from China directly to the Nusantara region through Sarawak waters, making Santubong one of the earliest significant trading centres.
“This means that Santubong was once an important hub for international trade. At that time, this area was already a major trading centre.
“Furthermore, around 16 or 17 years ago, there was a national leader who was very interested and knowledgeable about history, especially regarding the Nusantara-China connection.
“He said that our ties with China did not begin in Malacca but earlier through Terengganu.
“In fact, the Inscribed Stone of Terengganu and the discovery of ceramic artifacts prove that trade between China, Terengganu, and Sarawak had already taken place,” he said.
He said this in his speech at the officiating ceremony of Santubong Archaeological Park (SAP) and Wallace Centre at Sungai Jaong Gallery, Santubong, near here today.
Abang Johari said there is an interesting theory about the name Santubong, which resembles the Mandarin word ‘Santaubong’, said to mean a resting empress (permaisuri yang rehat) or a symbol of peace.
“In fact, that leader who already passed away also said that the word Santubong is similar to ‘Santaubong’ in Mandarin.
“Moreover, the real Sarawak before the arrival of the Brooke family only extended from the Sarawak River to Samarahan, while other areas were under Bruneian rule,” he explained.
He added that the White Rajah, James Brooke, actually arrived in Sarawak through the Santubong River, not via the Tebas estuary as often mentioned in historical records.
“He sailed from Singapore and anchored in Santubong before exploring Sarawak. Brooke only sailed as far as Batu Kitang, then to Lidah Tanah and Siniawan.
“So, when we want to elevate this history, it is not about glorifying anyone, but it is an important history that took place before the Brooke era,” he said.
Abang Johari also said that Santubong is not only rich in history but also serves as evidence that the region had already developed an economic structure and progress centuries ago.
“We have proof that during the colonial era, there were already customs and immigration offices in the Batu Buaya area of Santubong.
“That area is now known as the Wallace Centre, where an administrative bungalow already existed,” he said.
He added that mining and smelting activities already existed in Santubong up to Samarahan.
In addition, economic activities also developed in Bau, Lidah Tanah, and Siniawan, which were rich in antimony and gold.
“We were already wealthy back then. That was where our trade took place, with established trade ties with China.
“That is why I am requesting for this study to be conducted, so it can be proven that we have long been a trading region.
“This proposed study is not merely to prove trade relations with China, but also to revive the spirit of entrepreneurship and economic development that has long existed in Sarawak.
“In modern times, we have trade relations in the chip and hydrogen industries with China. This means the spirit of business and economic development has long been ingrained in the Sarawakian people,” he said.
