Exploration of Bukit Batu Kepale Rock Art: Uncovering the Prehistoric Heritage of Bangka Island
South Bangka, December 9–20, 2024 – A research team from the Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (BRIN) collaborated with lectures/researchers from the University of Indonesia, University of Bengkulu, and University of Jambi have conducted an in-depth study of the red carvings found in prehistoric rock art at Bukit Batu Kepale, located in Gudang Village, Simpang Rimba District, South Bangka Regency. The study, titled “Exploration of Bangka Island Rock Art: A Study of Prehistoric Imagery and Its Cultural Context,” aims to shed light on the cultural and historical significance of these ancient markings.
The research was led by Dr. Moh. Mu’alliful Ilmi, S.Si., M.Si, a chemist from BRIN, supported by a multidisciplinary team of seven members, including:
- Prof. Dr. R. Cecep Eka P., an archaeology lecturer at the University of Indonesia
- Dr. Evi Maryanti, a chemistry lecturer at the University of Bengkulu
- Dr. Adhi Agus Oktavianana, a BRIN rock art researcher
- Ari Murti W., M.Ark, an archaeology lecturer at the University of Jambi
- Sigit Eko Prasetyo, M.Hum, a prehistoric archaeology researcher at BRIN
- Rezki Yulianti Bahtiar, S.S, a Master’s student in archaeology at the University of Indonesia
This research builds upon preliminary studies conducted in 2019–2020 that confirmed the status of rock art as a cultural heritage object. “Previous research established that these rock art carvings are cultural heritage objects. This study aims to examine in greater detail the base materials of the markings found on the rock shelter at Bukit Batu Kepale,” explained Prof. Dr. R. Cecep Eka P. on Wednesday (December 11, 2024).
According to Prof. Cecep, analyzing the base materials of the carvings from collected samples allows the team to estimate the age of the art based on historical records and the regional context of Bangka. “If confirmed as a cultural heritage object, this discovery in Bangka Belitung could potentially predate similar findings in South Sumatra,” he added.
Bukit Batu Kepale is considered the only prehistoric rock art site in Bangka Belitung. It is part of a network of four regions in Sumatra with rock art, alongside Jambi, South Sumatra, and West Sumatra. The study aims to enrich the cultural data of Bangka Belitung by delving deeper into its prehistoric context. The research was supported by the Chairperson of the South Bangka Malay Traditional Institution, Kulul Sari, and representatives from the South Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency, Zainal Muttaqin. Additionally, the Bangka Belitung Provincial Culture and Tourism Office, along with Gudang Village community leader Makmun, also accompanied the research activities.
This study is expected to provide new insights into Indonesia’s prehistoric cultural history, particularly on Bangka Island. It also opens opportunities for the management and preservation of the Bukit Batu Kepale rock art site as part of the nation’s cultural heritage wealth. [Abok Amang/Vicka Andini/Evi Maryanti]
