By: Hamly Hadi
(History Observer)
The relationship between the Javanese and Banjarese has existed since the 14th century. Majapahit’s arrival in Banua Banjar was not accompanied by conquest or warfare, as in other regions.
Majapahit’s arrival in Banua Banjar was peaceful, involving a political marriage between the Banjarese kingdom of Tanjung Puri and the Majapahit kingdom of Princess Junjung Buih and Prince Surianata. This led to the formation of the Nagara Dipa Kingdom, which made Banua Banjar the rulers of the island of Kalimantan. All Majapahit colonies on the island were inherited by Nagara Dipa, which continued into the Banjar Sultanate.
This led to cultural collaboration between the two ethnic groups, including gamelan music, Kuda Gipang art, keris weapons, shadow puppets, gong puppets, and mask dances, which have existed since the Nagara Dipa era and are preserved to this day in Barikin Village, Hulu Sungai Tengah.
Relations between the Javanese and Banjarese continued when Demak converted the Banjarese to Islam in 1526.***
Banjarmasin, December 24, 2025
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