By: Dwikki Ogi Dhaswara
Translator : Siti Afrinda Syelsega, S. Hum
Bekaespedia.com_ During May, 1812 AD, British occupation of Bangka Island was facing a catastrophe, the resistance of Toboali citizens led by Raden Kling and his son Raden Ali.
A monopoly of Tin trades and a blockade of maritime routes around the Bangka Strait by the British caused a reduction in the income of Palembang Sultanate. That also triggered a resistance in the southern part of Bangka Island, which was centered at the base of Toboali.
They came without fear, becoming a story of battle without retreat. The sound of a war cry echoed in the air, stepping forward with incomparable determination.
Cannons and swords became the weapons, wrapped in burning passion, giving the strength to stand together. Repelling and voicing resistance to the British occupation, with unbelievably unwavering determination, they submerged British power mercilessly, framing, immortalizing and turning it into a tale of catastrophe that came to life.
“Take them all, really I need to see their fall and fear on their faces!” screamed Raden Ali, holding and planting a black war flag right on the ground.
From a distance could be seen Raden Kling carrying a hand cannon and Toboali citizens moving like a second line of war troops, united together, combining forces as if preparing to destroy British power in Toboali Defense Fortress.
Time accompanied them behind their shoulders, residing in a raging resistance, demanding justice and freedom. The burst of bullets and the crash of swords were roaring within ruins.
After firing his hand cannon, Raden Kling raised his hand while holding it, saying in a loud and brave voice “We will not submit to foreign nations, we are invincible warriors, facing the storm of injustice with courage.”
After hearing his father’s words, Raden Ali did not remain silent and started to encourage his troops, while holding his sword he said, “We will never give up, neither will we close our eyes. We are the light that illuminates this path of freedom. Our resistance is a song of justice, a weapon of love and truth.”
It didn’t take long for the Toobooali District as a British resident at that time to surrender. They were cornered and collapsed by the strength of Toboali citizens’ resistance. The words from Raden Kling and Raden Ali were like a fire of enthusiasm that burned within them, becoming a guiding force that brought the light of victory, the light that brought glorious glory that day.
Under the leadership of Raden Kling and Raden Ali, the citizens of Toboali won more than just achievements, they discovered potential within themselves, beyond limits that they had never imagined before.
However, this victory gave them the difficult task of maintaining it.
Raden Kling said to all Toboali citizens at that place, “Winning the war is a difficult thing to do. Even though we celebrate it, we must
remember that war is a tragedy that has no eternal winner,” with a sigh of exhaustion.
“Remember the fact that victory is when we achieve peace, but it’s not the same for foreign nations who invaded and seized our own property.” Raden Kling said
The war was over that day. Rubbles and ruins covered the land which was once overgrown with lush and grass, leaving only bloody and painful memories. Building new hopes, uniting in efforts to restore the income of citizens in Toboali and the Sultanate of Palembang.
On the same day, Raden Ali was assigned by Raden Kling to convey the news of the victory to his brother and best friend, Raden Sa’bah, at the Nyire River Defense Fort.
“Tell him of our victory, O my son! Ask him, is there anything we can help with there?” Raden Kling ordered to his son Raden Ali.
“Alright, Father, but will my leaving cause Toboali to be attacked again by the British?” said Raden Ali.
“You don’t need to worry, I’m with these people who are never afraid of battle!” answered Raden Kling.
Raden Ali then started to go to Nyire Fort. With a full sense of responsibility, he brought hope, devotion and a sincere determination to carry out his duties with true honor.
Seeing Raden Ali leaving, someone from his loyal warriors approached Raden Kling as if he wanted to talk to him.
“O sir, you really have a great descendant like
young master Raden Ali. He is very similar to you, sir. I will be very grateful if in the future I also have great descendants like the young master, the sword knight from Palembang Darussalam,” wished that man.
Raden Kling smiled at him and said, “Compared to me, he really got his mother’s courage.”
“However, when on the battlefield, he was so brave and determined, worthy of being an example that can inspire future generations, I hope that my children will be able to learn and be guided by you,” explained him.
“Really, I’m no better than the warriors in our Bangka land, my current skills are just temporary,” Raden Kling answered with a big smile.
“So, what will you do next until you are old? Really you are my role model in attitude and action,” asked him.
“You need to remember, the legacy for my future children and descendants, it is not about the gold-plated hilt sword, nor it is about the Kadga sword that I pointed to the “Lanun” pirates, nor the Trident for the war in the Bangka Strait, nor the Lar Bango sword with its long blade, nor Keris Semar from the “Prabu” King, nor Timah from Tanah Tagak. My legacy for them is my knowledge and spirit of struggle, the spirit of fighting traitors and invaders in the Land of Bangka, that is what will become an eternal legacy for my children, grandchildren and future descendants,” explained Raden Kling.
To be continued.
Toboali, November 13rd, 2023.
