HARIANEXPRESS – Three Kalimantan folk tales about disobedient children, transformed into birds or stones, serve as crucial reminders of filial piety. (2/8/2026)
These ancient legends, passed down through generations, highlight the enduring importance of respecting and honoring parents. They are integral to the oral traditions and character education across Kalimantan’s diverse communities.
One such prominent tale is the “Legenda Batu Menangis” (Weeping Stone Legend) from West Kalimantan, specifically found in Desa Jabar, Ella Hilir District. This province, often called “Seribu Sungai,” provides the backdrop for a story of profound moral significance.
The legend centers on Darmi, a beautiful but arrogant and spoiled young woman who lived with her widowed, hardworking mother. Darmi spent her days on self-adornment while her mother toiled in the garden to provide for them.
Darmi showed no appreciation for her mother’s sacrifices, refusing household chores and demanding money. Her disdain climaxed when she repeatedly introduced her mother, who appeared poor and weary, as a mere servant to her friends at the market.
Heartbroken by her daughter’s cruelty, the mother knelt and prayed to God for an end to her sorrow. Immediately, Darmi’s legs began to stiffen and turn into stone, a curse that steadily ascended her body until she became a complete stone, forever weeping.
Other tales of disobedience from Kalimantan include the legend of Burung Yoog Uung from East Kalimantan, where a youth named Tingang was cursed into a bird. From South Kalimantan, the story of Angui tells of a rich merchant whose ship and wealth transformed into Gua Batu Hapu after he expelled his mother.
Ketiga legenda ini mengajarkan bahwa sebesar apa pun keberhasilan seseorang, berbakti kepada orang tua tetap menjadi nilai yang tidak boleh diabaikan.
These narratives serve as crucial educational tools, instilling values such as respect, love, and responsibility toward parents from an early age. They underscore the belief that inner character holds more significance than superficial beauty.
The “Legenda Batu Menangis” has also been adapted into various art forms, including a drama-dance performance by Bakti Budaya Djarum Foundation in 2018. The performance was staged at Teater Kecil Taman Ismail Marzuki, the Philippines, and India.
