By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Oct 4: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has tasked the Sarawak Museum Department to study the history of Santubong, particularly theories that the area was once a key trading hub with China, while also carrying cultural significance through a legend that Mount Santubong resembles a ‘sleeping queen’ symbolising peace.
He said a late leader with deep knowledge of Chinese history, whom he refused to reveal just yet, had told him the Chinese have their own pronunciation of the word Santubong, referring to it as ‘San-tau-bong’ (sic).
“During a river journey to Santubong many years ago, this leader told me that according to the Chinese belief, the profile of Mount Santubong looks like a queen lying down or sleeping, and they believe such a figure reflects peace.
“If this is true, then Santubong and its surrounding areas are a place of peace. In other words, Sarawak will continue to be peaceful in the future. That is why I have asked the Museum Department to study this theory,” he said during the opening ceremony of Santubong Archaeological Park and Wallace Centre in Santubong today.
Later, when met by reporters, Abang Johari elaborated that the late leader also believed Santubong had played a role in early trading links with China, with archaeological findings, ceramics, ancient maps and even the Terengganu Inscription Stone suggesting trading ties between China, Terengganu and Santubong long before Malacca and Admiral Cheng Ho’s arrival.
He pointed out that the theory is consistent with archaeological evidence unearthed in Santubong, which includes smelting sites and traces of trading activities connected to antimony and gold in Siniawan, Lidah Tanah (Batu Kitang) and Bau.
“These findings prove that Sarawak was already a prosperous land and forward-looking even in those days. From Santubong to Samarahan, there were signs of advanced economic activity and industry,” he said.
Abang Johari added that this long-established trading spirit continues to shape Sarawak’s development today as the State moves into new areas such as hydrogen and chip technology.
At the same time, he said the legend of Santubong and its possible Chinese connections can further enrich Sarawak’s tourism industry.
“We are now targeting quality tourists who appreciate history, culture and archaeology. Stories like Santubong’s ‘sleeping queen’ add value to our attractions.
“In the past we spoke of ‘sun, sea and sand’ (3S) tourists, but today we want selective, quality tourism,” he emphasised. – DayakDaily
