Puputan Klungkung Monument: The Tale of Klungkung's King, Choosing to Fall Rather Than Be Colonized
Monumen Puputan Klungkung is evidence of the courage of the Klungkung king and his troops during the Puputan Klungkung event. It represents a significant chapter in the history of Indonesian independence on the island of Bali. Evidence of the courage of the people of Klungkung that marked the end of the last kingdom era in Bali.
Bali, as one of Indonesia's gems, captivates with its breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural richness. The cultural traditions of Bali add a distinctive flavor to the lives of its people, with customs passed down from generation to generation. Beyond its scenic allure, the island also harbors a fascinating history, with one focal point situated in Klungkung Regency. This area is not just the backdrop for significant historical events but also embodies the enduring cultural heritage that is invaluable. Serving as a center for local wisdom and unique identity, Bali, particularly Klungkung, provides a profound experience in exploring the wealth of heritage and daily life of its people.
As time progresses, the cultural wealth and history of Bali continue to reflect living values. In this context, the Puputan Klungkung Monument emerges as a powerful symbol of a captivating history. This monument stands as a silent witness to the dramatic events of the Puputan Klungkung in 1908, when the king and people of Klungkung chose sacrifice over surrender to colonial forces. This tragic history leaves a deep imprint on the collective memory of the Balinese community. Therefore, delving into the history of the Puputan Klungkung Monument is not merely an exploration of the past but also an understanding of resilience, courage, and spirit integral to the cultural heritage of the Island of the Gods.
The Puputan Klungkung Monument, also known as the Ida I Dewa Agung Jambe Monument, is situated in the center of Klungkung Regency, just north of the Catur Muka Great Intersection and in close proximity to the northeast of the Ida I Dewa Agung Istri Kania Cultural Hall. Originally established by Ida I Dewa Agung Jambe I in 1686, a descendant of Dalem di Made, the Klungkung Kingdom was moved from Gelgel to Semarapura, marking the founding of the Klungkung Kingdom.
Statue of the Royal Family (Photo Source : Editorial Collection)
Since the 16th century, the Dutch had set foot on Bali, but their threat was not immediately apparent. It was only in the 18th century that the Dutch began to demonstrate their power, leading to resistance in Bali, such as the Kusamba War. Under the leadership of Ida I Dewa Agung Istri Kania, armed with his magical keris, they successfully defeated the Dutch high commander, Major General Andreas Victor Michiels.
Tensions between the Dutch and the Klungkung Kingdom escalated as the Dutch were perceived to interfere in the kingdom's decision-making. By 1908, under the rule of Ida I Dewa Agung Jambe II, the 11th king of the Klungkung Kingdom and a descendant of the dynasty of Ida I Dewa Agung Jambe I, the peak of the conflict between the Netherlands and the Klungkung Kingdom occurred.
Starting April 13, 1908, the Dutch initiated patrols to secure the opium monopoly. By April 14, under Lieutenant Haremaker's command, the Dutch sought an audience with King I Dewa Agung Jambe, requesting permission to establish a fort in Gelgel. This request was sternly rejected by the king. Patrols continued until April 16, targeting deeper areas of the kingdom, such as Banjarangkan and Jumpai, without the king's consent. Cokorda Gelgel, who had staunchly resisted the Dutch since 1906, was angered. When the patrol moved towards Banjarangkan, the Klungkung forces attacked from all sides. This resulted in the death of Lieutenant Haremaker due to severe injuries.
Upon hearing this news, the Dutch became furious and decided to attack Gelgel and the Klungkung Kingdom. Armed with 13 cm and 15 cm caliber cannons, the Dutch attempted to storm the palace. An ultimatum to surrender was also sent to King I Dewa Agung Jambe, but it was vehemently rejected while buying time. From April 21, the Dutch bombarded the Semarapura Palace, Gelgel, and Satria for six consecutive days. However, approximately 3000 Klungkung warriors refused to surrender.
On April 27, Dutch reinforcements from Batavia arrived in Kusamba and Jumpai, preparing for the final assault the next day. On April 28, the climax of the battle occurred, and eventually, the Klungkung forces could no longer withstand the Dutch onslaught. From this onslaught, Cokorda Gelgel, Dewa Agung Gde Semarabawa, Dewa Agung Muter, and the crown prince, Dewa Agung Gde Agung, fell in battle. Finally, King Ida I Dewa Agung Jambe also perished, marking the end of the war with the determination of Dharmaning Ksatrya Mahottama, the highest duty of a true knight, dying on the battlefield.
War at Klungkung Palace (Photo Source : Editorial Collection)
The remains of the king and his followers were then cremated, and their ashes were dispersed into the sea through the Kali Unda river. Meanwhile, surviving royal descendants such as Cokorda Raka and Cokorda Oka Geg were captured and exiled to the island of Lombok.
Under Dutch rule, the former Klungkung Kingdom was divided into 12 districts, each headed by a district head. The downfall of the Klungkung Kingdom marked the end of the last kingdom in Bali, but this event also ushered in a new chapter in Indonesia's struggle against Dutch colonization.
