Java, one of Indonesia’s most culturally rich islands, is a land where history and legend intertwine. Among the many fascinating tales of Java’s past, one story stands out—a story of love, politics, and a powerful transformation that helped shape the island’s history. This is the tale of Siu Ban Ci, a Chinese woman whose beauty captivated the last king of Majapahit, Prabu Brawijaya, and whose presence at court became a pivotal moment in Java’s historical narrative.
Prabu Brawijaya, believed to be the last ruler of the Majapahit Empire, was struck by love at first sight when he laid eyes on Siu Ban Ci. She was a Muslim woman of Chinese descent, who came to the Majapahit palace with her father, Syekh Betong, also known as Tan Go Hwat. Syekh Betong, a wealthy merchant and a respected Islamic scholar, had traveled to Majapahit to seek permission to trade in the Keling region. He brought with him gifts fit for a king—jade from China, silk, Chinese ceramics, incense, and pearls. However, it wasn’t these lavish offerings that caught Prabu Brawijaya’s attention; it was the enchanting presence of Siu Ban Ci.
A Love That Stirred Jealousy in the Majapahit Court
The presence of Siu Ban Ci at the Majapahit palace did not go unnoticed. Dewi Amarawati, the Majapahit queen and a princess from Champa, harbored growing jealousy as she saw her husband become increasingly enamored with the beautiful Siu Ban Ci. Despite the queen’s feelings, Prabu Brawijaya graciously invited Syekh Betong and his daughter to stay at Puri Kanuruhan, a guesthouse in the royal complex.
The next day, after spending the night at Puri Kanuruhan, Syekh Betong was summoned to the Majapahit court once again. This time, Prabu Brawijaya expressed his desire to take Siu Ban Ci as his consort. Surprisingly, Syekh Betong agreed to the king’s request, and Siu Ban Ci was soon brought to the Majapahit palace in a grand palanquin, marking the beginning of her new life as the king’s favored consort.
The Growing Tension Between Siu Ban Ci and Dewi Amarawati
As Prabu Brawijaya’s love for Siu Ban Ci deepened, Queen Dewi Amarawati’s jealousy turned to fury. According to the “Babad Tanah Jawi” (Chronicle of the Land of Java), when Dewi Amarawati still had no children, Siu Ban Ci was already expecting a child with the king. The news of Siu Ban Ci’s pregnancy only heightened the tension between her and the queen. Consumed by anger, Dewi Amarawati demanded that Prabu Brawijaya divorce Siu Ban Ci. Yet, the love that had blossomed in Prabu Brawijaya’s heart could not be easily extinguished.
Nevertheless, Prabu Brawijaya found himself caught between his love for Siu Ban Ci and his duty to his queen. Reluctantly, he agreed to Queen Amarawati’s demands and sent Siu Ban Ci away to Palembang while she was three months pregnant. He entrusted her to Arya Damar, the Duke of Palembang, hoping that the Chinese community there would help her feel more at home.
The Life of Siu Ban Ci in Palembang
At the time, Palembang was still under Majapahit’s control and was known for its sizable Chinese population. Arya Damar, the Duke of Palembang, was himself of Chinese descent and was the son of Majapahit’s King Bathara Prabu Wikramawardhana and a Chinese concubine. Born as Swan Liong, Arya Damar was Prabu Brawijaya’s uncle, and he was tasked with ensuring Siu Ban Ci’s well-being during her stay in Palembang.
Prabu Brawijaya made one special request to Arya Damar: that he would marry Siu Ban Ci but not touch her until the child in her womb was born. The king also asked that the child be named Naraprakosa, which means “a mighty man,” upon his birth. However, when the baby was born, he was named Raden Hasan, and his Chinese name was Jin Bun.
A New Chapter in the Story of Java
As Raden Hasan grew up, he eventually traveled to Java to meet his biological father, Prabu Brawijaya. When the king of Majapahit met his own flesh and blood, he was overjoyed. Impressed by his son’s presence, Prabu Brawijaya appointed Raden Hasan as the Duke of Demak. Alongside him, his half-brother Raden Husain (the son of Arya Damar and Siu Ban Ci) was also given the title of Duke of Terung, later known as Arya Pecattanda.
The story of Siu Ban Ci and her journey from the Majapahit palace to Palembang, and her eventual return to Java through her son Raden Hasan, is a remarkable tale that illustrates the intricate web of love, politics, and culture in ancient Java. It also highlights the early interactions and influences of Chinese and Islamic cultures on the archipelago, which would continue to shape its history for centuries to come.
Why Choose Java Private Tour?
If you’re a traveler intrigued by the history of Java and wish to explore the cultural richness of this Indonesian island, look no further than Java Private Tour. With professional, English-speaking local guides who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and flexible, Java Private Tour offers a unique experience tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a historian, a YouTuber, a journalist, or just an avid traveler, our services are designed to provide an insightful and personalized exploration of Java’s heritage.
Java Private Tour isn’t just about guided tours; we also provide private car rentals with a wide range of options, from sedans and vans to tour buses. Our team, including drivers and guides, are licensed professionals committed to making your journey comfortable and memorable. It’s no wonder we are highly recommended by embassies from various countries who have experienced our exceptional service.
For first-time visitors to Java, Indonesia, Java Private Tour is your go-to guide. Think of us as the benchmark for an unforgettable adventure through the island’s history and culture.
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