From Sacred to Profane: A Study of Changes in The Meaning of The Bukit Siguntang Site, A Heritage of The Srivijaya Kingdom

Abstract

Siguntang Hill is essential evidence of the historical heritage of the Sriwijaya Kingdom in Palembang. Estimated to date from the 6th century AD. Although the Palembang community system has changed from the Buddhist period to the Islamic period since the development of the Palembang Sultanate, these relics are still considered sacred by the Malay community around the site, which is what keeps this historic site preserved. Currently, the condition of the site has not been maintained according to its function. Even though cultural heritage sites have been protected by government laws at the central and regional levels, this study aims to analyze changes in community and government cognition of the site and the impact of site damage. This study uses qualitative methods with a historical approach. The results showed a change in cognition of Siguntang Hill between the government and the community, giving rise to a struggle for the use of space between the government and the historical relic rescue group. The local government interprets the Bukit Siguntang site as a tourist asset that must be "sold". In contrast, activists interpret it as a historical heritage that must be saved because it holds the collective memory of the Malay people. This difference in views led to different approaches to utilizing the site, ultimately leading to conflict between groups. It is hoped that the function of the Bukit Siguntang site can be restored to its original state even though it is not authentic.