Tanjung Uma Stands Resolute Amidst Batam’s Urbanization
Discover the beauty of Tanjung Uma, a historic village on the northern coast of Batam, Indonesia, that has managed to preserve its cultural heritage in the face of industrial development and urbanization.
Nestled opposite the bustling areas of Jodoh and Batu Ampar, Tanjung Uma showcases a rich tapestry of history and tradition amidst Batam’s rapid economic and urban growth.
Photo: Indonesia Tourism (2024)
Despite the onslaught of modern development, Tanjung Uma preserves its character as a village, maintaining the Malay language and traditional ways of life among its dense population.
Read More: Education, Empowerment, Environment: The Key Ingredients for Regional Sustainability
Traditional Malay structures and customs, such as the unique Malay stilt houses and the long-held wedding traditions, continue to thrive, providing a cultural bridge between the past and present.
Historically a hub for fishermen and traders, Tanjung Uma has experienced significant economic shifts, from coconut and rubber farming to being a vital part of Batam’s offshore industrial sector.
The village witnessed economic hardships during the Indonesia-Singapore confrontations in the 1960s, which led to restricted cross-border activities, drastically affecting the local economy.
Efforts to formally recognize and preserve Tanjung Uma as a historical site culminated in 2010, establishing it officially as a heritage village, ensuring the protection of its cultural and historical identity.
Tanjung Uma offers a unique insight into the resilience of traditional communities within rapidly developing urban areas. The village serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of globalization, offering a rich and educational experience for those interested in the region’s history and cultural dynamics.
TUEP expresses gratitude to Kallista School students for their thoughtful book donations, supporting the English Class for Teens program and sparking new learning opportunities. Source: tanjungumaempowerment on Instagram
Programs like Tanjung Uma Empowerment Program in Batam, with its focus on education, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, and Livingseas Foundation in Bali, dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems with local community involvement, demonstrate how collective efforts can ensure the preservation and empowerment of such communities for a sustainable future.
Livingseas Foundation added 100 reef structures, advancing marine ecosystem conservation efforts. Source: livingseas.foundation on Instagram
Source: Ulasan (2024)
