Indonesia's Spice Kingdom | The Mark Of Empire | Majapahit

Peter Lee, a Singaporean scholar of Peranakan descent, embarks on a journey to uncover Southeast Asia's cultural heritage. He begins by discussing the diversity of the region and his own mixed heritage. Lee travels to Indonesia to learn about the Majapahit Empire, which unified various cultures and ethnicities. He highlights the empire's influence on modern Indonesia, where multiple religions and ethnic groups coexist.

Lee delves into the origins of Indonesia's national motto, 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,' through the 700-year-old poem 'Sutasoma.' The poem, written on dried palm leaves, tells a story of religious harmony between Buddhism and Hinduism during the Majapahit era. This concept of acceptance and unity is a key legacy of the Majapahit Empire, which helped unify the diverse archipelago.

Lee visits a temple restoration project in Java, where he assists in restoring ancient bricks. He reflects on the significance of preserving Majapahit heritage, noting that the majority of Indonesians today are Muslim, yet the remnants of Hindu and Buddhist temples are a testament to the empire's religious tolerance. The restoration efforts symbolize a respect for the past and the integration of history into the present community.

Lee explores how the volcanic geography of Java contributed to the Majapahit Empire's wealth. The fertile volcanic soil enabled massive rice harvests, which were traded for spices, porcelain, beads, and textiles. This trade transformed Java's coastline into bustling ports and connected the region with merchants from across Asia. Lee visits a dig site and a traditional batik maker, highlighting the cultural exchanges facilitated by trade.

The Majapahit Empire's golden age was driven by its prime minister, Gajah Mada, who expanded the empire's influence. The empire's wealth and cultural richness were epitomized by its royal court and artistic traditions, such as the Wayang Topeng masked dance. Lee learns about these performances and their role in impressing foreign visitors, reflecting the empire's sophisticated cultural heritage.

Lee participates in a Wayang Topeng performance, a traditional dance depicting tales of the Javanese prince Panji. He visits Candi Penataran, the State Temple of Majapahit, which features reliefs of these stories. The Panji tales, popular throughout Southeast Asia, symbolize unity and the cultural influence of the Majapahit Empire. Lee reflects on the political symbolism of these stories and their historical significance.

Lee travels to Lake Matano in Sulawesi to investigate the extent of Majapahit's control over Indonesia's outer islands. He joins archaeologists exploring a submerged settlement and discovers well-preserved artefacts, including an iron workshop. Lee discusses the trade relationships and influence of the Majapahit Empire, noting the ongoing debate among historians about the extent of its power.

The Majapahit Empire's influence extended across Indonesia through its trading wealth and strategic alliances. However, the introduction of Islam by traders and internal power struggles weakened the empire. Lee visits Masjid Sunan Ampel, East Java's oldest mosque, and learns about the spread of Islam. The fall of the Majapahit Empire led to a shift in power dynamics and the rise of new trading hubs.

Lee explores a neighborhood in East Java where multiple religious sites coexist, a legacy of the Majapahit's tolerance. He meets local leaders who work together to address community issues, reflecting the spirit of unity. Lee engages with street artists promoting religious harmony through mural activism, emphasizing the continued relevance of the Majapahit Empire's values in modern Indonesia.

Lee concludes by reflecting on the lessons of the Majapahit Empire's openness and strategic acumen. Despite its fall and subsequent colonial rule, the empire's legacy of cultural blending and tolerance has shaped modern Indonesia. Lee's journey through Indonesia underscores the enduring impact of the Majapahit on the nation's identity and the importance of unity in diversity.