Long ago three powerful figures established a defensive settlement near Batavia. They were Tumenggung Aria Yudhanegara Aria Wangsakara and Aria Jaya Santika. This settlement became the foundation of Kabupaten Tangerang. Tigaraksa its name means “three pillars” a tribute to these three leaders. Legend says a prince from the Banten Sultanate erected a monument near the Cisadane River. This monument became known as Tangerang meaning “sign” in Sundanese. The inscription on the monument written in old Javanese using Arabic script marked the area’s boundaries.
Kabupaten Tangerang a regency in Banten province Indonesia is located west of Jakarta. Much of its land is lowland. The Cisadane River the longest river in Tangerang flows south to the Java Sea. The regency is divided into three growth centers. Balaraja and Tigaraksa focus on industry housing and government. Teluknaga emphasizes coastal tourism maritime industries fishing and ports. Curug Kelapa Dua Legok and Pagedangan near South Tangerang focus on housing and business.
The “Three Leaders” rule ended in 1684 after an agreement between the Dutch and the Banten Sultanate. This gave Tangerang to the Dutch. The Dutch established a regency separate from Banten with appointed regents. Kyai Aria Soetadilaga I-VII ruled during this period. Eventually the Dutch removed the regency transferring its administration to Batavia. The Dutch sold land in Tangerang to wealthy Batavia residents. These residents employed Indonesian youth to aid in defense efforts.
During World War II Japan altered Tangerang’s status. It was elevated from a sub-district to a regency. This change resulted from Jakarta’s designation as a special city and because Jakarta’s regency government was deemed ineffective. The Japanese governor appointed Kentyo M Atik Soeardi as regent. Kabupaten Tangerang’s anniversary is celebrated on December 27 1943. This date commemorates its elevation to a regency under Japanese rule.
The regency’s capital later shifted to Tigaraksa. This move symbolized the pursuit of a self-sufficient prosperous society free from the shackles of poverty ignorance and backwardness. Kabupaten Tangerang a place of significant historical and cultural importance continues to evolve. It is a blend of past and present a rich tapestry of traditions and progress.