Inscription Stone of Pulau Pangkor
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
An imposing granite boulder, measuring approximately 10.7 meters in length, 4.6 meters in width and 4.3 meters in height, bears inscriptions that date back to the mid-18th century. The most prominent among these is the year "1743," etched five times, marking a significant period during which Dutch forces re-established their presence on the island after being expelled in the late 17th century.
The inscriptions on Batu Bersurat include the letters "VOC," representing the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie) and "If Carlo 1743," possibly commemorating an individual named Carlo. These carvings are believed to have been made by Dutch soldiers stationed at the nearby Dutch Fort, located just 100 meters away, between 1743 and 1748. The rock also features a depiction of a lion, which some researchers interpret as the Dutch coat of arms, complete with a quiver of arrows and a sword, rather than the previously believed image of a tiger attacking a boy.
Local folklore adds a layer of mystique to Batu Bersurat. Some villagers believe the rock possesses a unique energy, with tales suggesting it has grown in size over the years. Visitors often report a palpable sense of earth energy when touching the stone with both hands.
Today, Batu Bersurat is protected by a modern shelter to preserve its historical inscriptions from the elements. Its proximity to the Dutch Fort allows visitors to explore both sites conveniently, offering a tangible connection to the island's rich colonial history. For those seeking to delve deeper into the narratives of Pulau Pangkor, a visit to Batu Bersurat provides an evocative glimpse into the past.
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