Santubong (Sarawak)

 We can identify human economic activity in the past from Santubong, Sarawak.

Mount Santubong, Sarawak

Source: https://www.experiencetravelgroup.com/blog/bako-national-park-santubong-peninsula-in-borneo/

   Mount Santubong is a majestic mountain located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo. It holds great cultural and historical significance, captivating the imaginations of locals and visitors alike. The history of Mount Santubong is intertwined with the folklore, legends, and rich heritage of the region. According to history, Mount Santubong was discovered by British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace in 1855 while he was collecting specimens in Sarawak. Mount Santubong has been gazette as one of Sarawak’s National Parks, and its nearby beach is recognized as one of the biggest wetland areas in the whole of Borneo. 

The tale of Princess Santubong and Princess Sejinjang

    Ancient legends and folklore surrounding Mount Santubong date back centuries. According to one popular legend, there were once two princesses named Santubong and Sejinjang. The princesses were said to possess extraordinary beauty and possessed the ability to transform into two mountain peaks. Mount Santubong represents the princess Santubong, while Mount Sejinjang symbolizes her sister. The legend also tells of a forbidden love between Santubong and a prince, which ultimately led to their transformation into the mountains.

    During the 7th to the 15th century, the region surrounding Mount Santubong was part of the Srivijaya Empire, an influential maritime kingdom that dominated Southeast Asia. The empire's control over the strategic waterways facilitated trade and cultural exchange, leading to the establishment of trading posts along the coasts. The area around Mount Santubong likely served as a stopover point for traders navigating the maritime routes. In the 19th century, the Brooke family, led by James Brooke, arrived in Sarawak and established the Rajah Brooke. The Brookes, also known as the "White Rajahs," played a significant role in the development and governance of Sarawak. Mount Santubong served as a prominent landmark during this period, guiding ships into the nearby Kuching, which was the capital of the Rajah Brooke.