In the 14th century, amid shifting political tides and fierce competition among kingdoms in the archipelago, a towering power emerged—the Majapahit Empire. Under the leadership of Sri Rajasanagara Hayam Wuruk, Majapahit not only rose to become the largest kingdom in Southeast Asia but also a shining symbol of Nusantara’s civilizational glory that continues to inspire to this day.
The Rise of a Young King
Hayam Wuruk ascended the throne in 1350, succeeding his mother, Tribhuwana Tunggadewi. At just 16 years old, he quickly demonstrated the qualities of a great ruler—sharp intellect, a strong vision for leadership, and the support of experienced palace advisors.
“Hayam Wuruk was a firm and courageous king with a profound understanding of governance,” wrote Sekar Nur Hidayah and colleagues in their article Kepemimpinan Hayam Wuruk dan King Alfred: Kisah Dua Raja yang Menentukan Nasib Bangsa.
A central figure in his reign was the legendary Gadjah Mada, the Patih Amangkubhumi (Prime Minister), who had earlier vowed to unite the archipelago through his famous Sumpah Palapa (Palapa Oath). Together, Hayam Wuruk and Gadjah Mada ushered in Majapahit’s golden age—an unprecedented era of power, diplomacy, and cultural development.
As a ruler, Hayam Wuruk successfully established an efficient and proactive system of governance. This was evident in the tribute system and in his approach to forging alliances with other kingdoms.
“Hayam Wuruk sent envoys annually to kings across the Nusantara and beyond, reflecting his active involvement in strengthening diplomatic relations,” the article explains.
Majapahit and Its Sphere of Influence
The reign of Hayam Wuruk marked a period of exceptional stability within the Majapahit Empire. The kingdom successfully maintained cohesion among its territories, reinforcing Majapahit’s position as a strong and centralized power.
Under the leadership duo of Hayam Wuruk and Gadjah Mada, Majapahit expanded its influence across much of Southeast Asia.
According to the Negarakertagama manuscript by Mpu Prapanca (1365), the Majapahit Empire’s territory included:
- Most of the islands in what is now modern-day Indonesia (Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, and the Lesser Sunda Islands)
- The Malay Peninsula
- Tumasik (now Singapore)
- Parts of southern Philippines and southern Thailand
Hayam Wuruk’s economic achievements were also evident in the thriving trade networks of Majapahit. The empire’s naval fleet sailed across the archipelago, strengthening both its economy and regional influence.
"Trade played a crucial role in enriching the kingdom’s resources and fostering strong commercial ties across the Nusantara."
Cultural and Literary Achievements
Majapahit’s greatness was not limited to territorial expansion—it was also a golden era of cultural and intellectual flourishing:
- The Negarakertagama chronicle detailed the kingdom’s administrative structure, social order, and royal expeditions.
- Javanese classical literature, architecture, and performing arts like wayang (shadow puppetry) thrived during this period.
- Majapahit also became a key center in the spice trade, connecting Indian and Chinese trade routes.
Legacy and Reflection
Hayam Wuruk’s reign marked the final pinnacle of Hindu-Buddhist dominance in the archipelago before the rise of Islam. His government is remembered as an era of stability, prosperity, and diplomatic openness.
Following the death of Gadjah Mada in 1364 and Hayam Wuruk in 1389, internal conflicts gradually weakened Majapahit’s power. Yet, the legacy of its golden age remains a vital part of Indonesian history—a symbol of unity and past grandeur.
