JEJAK ISLAM AWAL DI SAMBAS

Kajian Terhadap Makam-Makam Tua Desa Merabuan

Abstract

The study examines the condition of ancient Islamic tombs in Merabuan Village and explores the variety of gravestone motifs as early indicators of the Islamization process in the coastal region of Sambas, West Kalimantan. The lack of academic research on these archaeological remains forms the main background of this study. The research employs the historical method with an archaeological approach. Data were collected through the stages of heuristics, verification, interpretation, and historiography. The findings show that the ancient tombs are scattered across garden areas and vary in condition, from well preserved to heavily weathered. The gravestones feature decorative motifs such as vegetal scrolls, jars or pitchers, and medallions, reflecting the influence of early Islamic art in coastal Malay style. The study concludes that the people of Merabuan had embraced and practiced Islam as early as the late 15^th to early 16^th century CE, prior to the establishment of the Sambas Sultanate. The Islamization process occurred earlier through trade and religious proselytization. These tombs hold significant historical, cultural, and spiritual value, and thus warrant further preservation and scholarly investigation.