Batang Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Sacred Heirloom Parade

RRI.CO.ID, Batang - The 60th anniversary of Batang Regency’s reinstatement in Central Java was celebrated with a vibrant cultural parade on Sunday, April 12, 2026. A major highlight was the procession of the Tombak Pusaka Kyai Abirawa, a revered heirloom spear.

The spear, known as Kyai Abirawa, is considered a sacred heirloom symbolizing authority and protection. It has been tied to Batang Regency’s governance since the Islamic Mataram era in the 17th century, when such heirlooms were regarded as legitimizing the rule of local leaders.

Today, it is housed at Gedong Pusaka Batang and paraded only on special occasions, playing a central role in traditional ceremonies.

Custodian Raden Susanto Waluyo said preparations had begun days earlier, with several heirlooms readied to enrich the event. “We, along with the crew, have prepared everything since a few days ago. This includes heirlooms for the parade, such as the Tombak Pusaka Kyai Abirawa, the Keris Piandel Adipati Batang 1 (a ceremonial dagger symbolizing the authority of Batang’s first regent), the Payung Tunggul Pangayom (a royal umbrella representing protection and leadership), and accompanying spears,” he said at the Batang Regency Pendapa.

He explained that no special rituals were performed, though complete traditional paraphernalia remained essential. “The participation of the Tombak Pusaka Kyai Abirawa symbolizes sharing in the joy of Batang Regency’s 60th reinstatement. It embodies the motto Batang Gumregah Hanggayuh Barokah, Datan Katun Budaya Luhung Kuncara Hanjayeng Bawana — meaning ‘Batang rises to pursue blessings, uphold noble culture, and achieve global recognition,’” he added.

The cultural parade included local administration agencies and members of the public, with participants donning unique costumes to express their love for Batang’s heritage.

One participant, Neko Rossa Regeta from Bank Jateng’s Batang Branch, expressed pride in joining. “I’m wearing the Dewi Laras costume, depicting the mythical ruler of the Alas Roban forest along Batang’s Pantura route (the northern coastal highway of Java). Dewi Laras is a legendary figure believed to guard the forest with mystical allure,” she said.

Batang Communication and Informatics Agency Secretary Puji Setyowati emphasized the importance of the event for cultural preservation. “May Batang Regency’s 60th reinstatement bring progress, prosperity, and happiness to its people. With the theme of a wayang culture procession, we follow the dalang’s lead,” she concluded. (Annaila Azzahra/Lasti Martina)