To fully appreciate the city of Malang in East Java, one must journey back in time and begin Uncovering the History of the ancient Singhasari Kingdom. This powerful Hindu-Buddhist kingdom, which flourished in the 13th century, left a profound legacy that can still be seen in temples, statues, and historical sites scattered throughout the region. Uncovering the History of Singhasari is a captivating exploration into the tales of legendary kings and the political intrigues that shaped the archipelago’s history.
The kingdom’s most prominent figure was its founder, Ken Arok, a man who rose from humble beginnings to establish a dynasty. The story of his rise to power, filled with drama and prophecy, is immortalized in ancient Javanese texts. The heart of the kingdom was located near present-day Malang, a fact confirmed by archaeological findings and historical inscriptions. On April 10, 2025, a team of archaeologists and historians from the University of Indonesia, in collaboration with the Malang Cultural Heritage Conservation Agency, held a seminar titled “Singhasari: A Legacy Revisited.” According to Professor Sutrisno, a leading expert on the subject, “The Singhasari period was a golden age for Java, laying the groundwork for the later Majapahit Empire. Uncovering the History of this period provides critical insights into the formation of a unified archipelago.”
One of the most significant relics of the Singhasari Kingdom is the Singhasari Temple, or Candi Singhasari, located in Singosari, a district just north of Malang. This temple, believed to be the burial site of King Kertanegara, the last ruler of the kingdom, stands as a testament to the kingdom’s artistic and architectural prowess. On June 14, 2024, the temple hosted a local cultural event that attracted hundreds of visitors, including students from nearby schools. The Police Department of Singosari was present to ensure the security and smooth flow of the event. A police officer, Mr. Setyo, stated that “The temple is not just a relic; it is a vital part of our heritage, and protecting it is our top priority.”
Furthermore, the area around the temple is rich with other historical artifacts. Statues and relics, such as the impressive and enigmatic statue of Dvarapala, a giant guardian figure, stand as silent witnesses to the kingdom’s past glory. These findings help paint a clearer picture of the kingdom’s religious and social life. By visiting these sites, tourists and history enthusiasts alike can embark on an educational journey, appreciating the grandeur and complexity of a civilization that once dominated the region.