Two Indonesian-language novels, Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan by Sahal Japara and Bau by Gunoto Saparie, demonstrate how literature can be an important medium for preserving and reinterpreting the cultural identity of Pantura.
These two novels not only highlight local values, but also rediscover the spiritual history and past glory of the north coast of Java.
Cultural observer Sukarjo Waluyo considers these works to be an important effort in building the cultural identity of today’s society.
The novel Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan is a modern reinterpretation of the teachings of Syekh Mutamakkin, a legendary spiritual figure from Kajen Village, Pati, who is known through the Serat Cabolek manuscript.
The teachings raised in Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan and Sing Pendhitku Ngusap ing Mbun are religious and philosophical symbols engraved on the decorations of the Kajen Mosque.
Meanwhile, Sing Pendhitku Ngusap ing Mbun is a message about the importance of blessing and humility in seeking knowledge.
This novel has been printed four times and is widely discussed in educational and religious forums in Pati Regency, especially during the Haul Syekh Mutamakkin in the month of Syuro.
Meanwhile, the novel Bau by Gunoto Saparie, which was nominated for the 2020 Prasidatama Award by the Central Java Language Center, tells the story of Tumenggung Bahurekso from Kendal.
Through historical narrative and imagination, Gunoto brings back the heyday of Kaliwungu and Kendal as strategic coastal areas in the political map of Java.
Bahurekso is portrayed as an intelligent and diplomatic leader, caught between the power struggles of Sultan Agung and the VOC.
According to Sukarjo Waluyo, these two novels raise important issues regarding cultural identity in the context of today’s democratization. He refers to Stuart Hall’s theory that identity is a social product that is constantly changing and shaped by the dynamics of the times.
In Sukarjo’s view, the authors of these novels act as innovators who reconstruct local identity through the medium of literature.
“It could be that Mas Gunoto wants to convey and remind us of the great memories of the past as inspiration for young people to rise again,” said Sukarjo.
Sukarjo emphasized that even though historical facts are found in the novels, imaginative elements are still present, making the work a combination of historical documentation and cultural expression.
In this way, Sukarjo sees local literary works such as Kuntul Nucuk Mbulan and Bau as having strategic value in preserving and reviving the cultural identity of the Pantura community.
Literature becomes a tool for reflecting on the past, a mirror of today’s reality, and a guide for navigating a future that is more rooted in local cultural values.