National Archives of

Release No.: 23/NOV 03B-l/94/11/09

SPEECH BY BG (NS) GEORGE YEO, MINISTER (INFORMATION AND THE ARTS) AND (HEALTH), AT THE OPENING OF THE LEGACY OF MAJAPAHIT AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM ON WEDNESDAY, 9 NOVEMBER 1994 AT 6.00 PM

To many Singaporeans, Majapahit is an ancient empire we read of only in the pages of a history textbook. The Kingdom of Majapahit ruled by Hindu Kings was the largest empire ever established in Southeast Asia from the 13th century to the 16th century. It was founded in East Java in 1294, exactly 700 years at the end of Kublai Khan's invasion.

In the 14th century, Majapahit became a great centre of power in the entire Malay Archipelago. Its sway spread over much

Administratively the empire was loosely bound by tribute paid in products and services to the centre by small states in the region including old Singapore, then known as Temasek. In the 15th century it was gradually torn apart by civil war. The trading ports of Java's north coast, where Islam was becoming popular, came into conflict with the traditional centre of power in the rice-growing interior. Majapahit authority in the Malacca Straits was increasingly contested by an emergent Malacca. By the time the Portuguese conquered Malacca in 1511, only a shell was left of Majapahit.

Through archaeology and historical writings, we know that Majapahit had a major influence on the politics and culture of old Singapore. Both the 14th Century poem, Nagarakertagama and the 17th century Pararaton (Book of Kings) mentioned Temasek as part of the Majapahit empire. 2 From a 19th century British description, a six-foot high stone inscription once stood at the mouth of the Singapore River, where the Merlion stands today. Sadly, only a fragment of it is left with us today. British engineers blew it up in 1843 to make way for the residence of one of their military commanders. What is left only tells us that the inscription was written in an ancient Javanese script used during the Majapahit era.

In 1926, a hoard of gold jewellery was found by workmen excavating the reservoir on Fort Canning Hill. The armlet, ear rings and finger rings are stylistically similar to Majapahit gold jewellery.

Majapahit left a deep impression on Southeast Asian culture. This exhibition is an attempt to trace the influence of Majapahit art and thought in modern Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia. Indeed, it is not possible to understand Indonesia today without reference to the legacy of Majapahit heritage.

Majapahit art was Javanese in character. Hinduism was adapted to the spiritual needs of the Javanese people, inspiring impressive sculptures and bronzework during the classical period. Architectural designs first introduced in Majapahit created a style and a tradition which influenced all of Java and Bali till today.

Numerous literary works of considerable refinement were written, some of which have survived to the present. One of the famous works was the poem Nagarakertagama which described the capital at Trowulan, its surroundings and the far reaches of the kingdom. The Indonesian state motto "Bhinnekka Tunggal Ika" which means "Unity In Diversity" is adapted from Sutasoma, an epic from 14th century East Java. Words like "nusantara" and "palapa" recall the exploits of the great Gajah Mada.

Recent research is beginnng to demonstrate yet another facet of life in Majapahit Java; the beginning of true urbanism. l

3 Scholarship in the capital city in the past few years show a sophisticated and complex city. Traces of Indonesian houses built of brick have recently been excavated. Majapahit Trowulan was possibly the first true city in archipelagic Southeast Asia.

There has never been an exhibition in Singapore devoted to exhibiting the achievements of this great empire. The National Heritage Board, in conjunction with the Directorate- General of Culture, Republic of Indonesia, is delighted to hold this first exhibition on the legacy of Majapahit in the National Museum of Singapore. This co-operation reflects the very good relations between our two countries. Such exhibitions help us understand each other's history and culture, and how in similar ways Singapore and Indonesia have operationalised the ideal of "unity in diversity" in our promotion of racial harmony and national cohesion. Whether it was during the time of Srivijaya, Majapahit, Malacca or now, the destinies of our two peoples have always been intertwined. It was from the Riaus that Sri Tri Buana espied Temasek and gave it the name Singapura. It was from Palembang that Parameswara came to become king of Temasek and founder of Malacca. During the colonial period, there was some loss of contact as the Dutch and the British carved out different spheres of influence. But, with merdeka, the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), the growth triangle and the expanding areas of bilateral economic cooperation in other parts of Indonesia, our destinies are intertwinning once again. Thus, Majapahit holds lessons for our future.

On this 700th Anniversary of Majapahit's founding, it gives me great pleasure to declare open, together with Bapak Wardiman, The Legacy of Majapahit.

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