JatimVoice.com – The name Kepanjen, now recognized as the capital of Malang Regency since 2008, may have deeper roots than popular folklore suggests. Historians argue it likely originates from the term "panji", a title for nobility or leaders in ancient Javanese kingdoms—not merely the legendary figure Raden Panji Pulang Jiwo.
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| source: suarajatimpost |
Budi Hartono, a historian and former teacher at SMA Negeri 1 Kepanjen, asserts that the name reflects the region’s ties to Java’s Hindu-Buddhist era. "In ancient Javanese society, ‘panji’ referred to aristocrats or local rulers," he explained on Thursday (24/4/2025). The area may have once been the seat of a panji’s residence or a noble lineage.
Archaeological evidence supports this theory, including intricately carved stone pedestals (umpak) and remnants of red-brick walls in Jenggolo Village. "The craftsmanship suggests structures fit for palaces or high-ranking officials," Budi noted, hinting at Kepanjen’s historical significance.
The name may also link to Mapanji Garasakan, a historical figure from the Janggala Kingdom—a successor state to Kahuripan under King Airlangga. The nearby village name Jenggolo further echoes Jenggala, reinforcing Kepanjen’s potential role as a strategic defense or administrative hub.
Additional artifacts, like a standing Ganesha statue near Karangkates Dam, suggest the area marked a border between Jenggala and Panjalu kingdoms, divided by the Brantas River and Mount Kawi.
While local legend attributes the name to Raden Panji Pulang Jiwo, a mythical Madurese prince, Budi dismisses this as unsupported by physical evidence. "Folklore enriches culture, but historical and archaeological proof holds more weight in tracing origins," he concluded.