Kampung Tua, located in Tepian Langsat Village, East Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan, is one of the oldest settlements in the region. Its historical presence is believed to date back to before 1917, as evidenced by ancient graves whose headstones bear the year of death of the village’s ancestors. These burial sites serve as important markers of the long-standing history and civilization of the local community.
The origins of Tepian Langsat’s residents trace back to Muara Ma’au, an area that was once inhabited by the Dayak Basap people, located in the karst region of Sangkulirang–Mangkalihat. Over time, the community migrated downstream and began to live side by side with the Kutai people. From the interaction and coexistence of these two ethnic groups, a new community emerged. What we now know as Tepian Langsat Village.
Although many houses in Kampung Tua have been damaged by time and are no longer intact, residents still choose to live there. This decision is not merely about shelter, but rather a conscious effort to honor their history, preserve ancestral heritage, and maintain the village’s identity as a living embodiment of its historical roots.
Tepian Langsat has also faced difficult times, notably during the massive forest fires in 1982 and 1997, which destroyed large portions of the village. Nevertheless, the community gradually recovered, particularly after the year 2000 through economic revitalization programs, including the development of palm oil plantations and the arrival of mining and agricultural companies.
The Journey to Kampung Tua
Reaching Tepian Langsat requires effort but that’s part of its charm. Located approximately 4–5 hours from the capital of Sangatta. To access the main part of the village, travelers cross a narrow suspension bridge, just one meter wide and 40 meters long. Which connects the two main hamlets: Tepian Langsat Ilir and Tepian Langsat Ulu.
While cars must take a longer detour due to the limited width of the bridge, motorcycles and pedestrians can cross directly. The journey itself is a reminder that reaching something meaningful often requires slowing down and that the destination is as much about the people as it is about the place.