KBRN, Samarinda: Four culinary specialties from East Kalimantan, Amplang Samarinda, Bubur Peca’, Amparan Tatak, and Jajak Juragan Mabok, have been officially designated as National Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB) by the Ministry of Culture.

“We are grateful that all 13 of our proposed heritage items from East Kalimantan were approved, including those in the culinary category,” said Sih Sudiyono, Head of the Cultural Division at the East Kalimantan Provincial Education and Culture Agency, in Samarinda on Wednesday, November 5, as reported by antaranews.com.

He noted that the recognition aligns with the government’s broader efforts to strengthen the cultural economy through the culinary sector. With the development of Indonesia’s new capital city, the region’s culinary heritage is expected to contribute to the welfare of cultural practitioners in East Kalimantan.

Amplang Samarinda is a well-known savory fish cracker made from mackerel or snakehead fish, mixed with tapioca flour and deep-fried to a crisp.

Bubur Peca’, a traditional porridge prepared by the Bugis community in Samarinda Seberang subdistrict, is commonly served to break the fast during Ramadan.

It features a rich blend of spices including shallots, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, coconut milk, chicken stock, and curry powder, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish.

Amparan Tatak, a soft-textured cake with sweet and savory notes, originates from the Banjar people of South Kalimantan but has a distinct version in East Kalimantan.

According to Sih, the local variant differs significantly in both ingredients and preparation methods. “A team of experts has acknowledged these differences,” he said.

Jajak Juragan Mabok, a specialty from Kutai Kartanegara, is especially popular during the Ramadan period. Known for its rich, creamy taste, the cake’s name playfully refers to its addictive flavor, “mabok” meaning intoxicated.

These four culinary items are part of a broader list of 13 cultural heritage proposals from East Kalimantan that were approved by a national expert panel in Jakarta last month.

Other recognized items include traditional crafts such as Sulam Tumpar and Kriookng from West Kutai Regency; the Penembe Mask Dance from Kutai Kartanegara in the performing arts category; and Pemala from West Kutai in the customs category.

The Ministry of Culture will present the official WBTB certificates during the Cultural Heritage Awards ceremony on December 3, 2025, in Jakarta. ***