Senggarang is the name of a small village that is located on Bintan Island. Bintan is an island that is part of the Riau Archipelago. It is worth noting that the Riau Archipelago is a geographical term that applies to a group of islands within the province of Riau Islands. Bintan Island, specifically the southern part of the island, is home to the administrative centre of Riau Islands Province, Tanjung Pinang.
The history of Bintan Island dates back to the 3rd century AD, when the island was a trading point on the route between China and India. This was the time when the island flourished. The island was first owned by the Chinese, then by the British. In the 12th century, Bintan Island was known as "Pirate Island" as it was home to Malay pirates who robbed and sank merchant ships. In 1824, under the terms of the Anglo-Dutch Convention, Bintan Island became part of the Dutch East Indies and remained a part of the Dutch East Indies until 1945, when Indonesia became independent. Today, the island is known for its resort area, where people from all over the world go for holidays.
Senggarang on Bintan Island is of particular interest to tourists as the local villagers have preserved their distinctive culture. There are many temples located in the village, some of which were built about 300 years ago. The temples are built in the Chinese style and attract a huge number of tourists, with local Buddhist pilgrims also visiting.
One of the oldest temples, San Te Kong, is located near the harbour of the village. The temple is dedicated to the god of fire, and was built almost as soon as the village began to be settled. People came to him to pray and ask for prosperity and happiness. Marco Temple is named after the god of the sea, whom the villagers treated with reverence. Tai Ti Kong Temple was built together with Marco Temple, but is slightly smaller and dedicated to the god of the earth. Residents would turn to this temple and pray to it in the hope of reaping a good harvest. Baniyan Tri Temple is located near the beach and is surrounded by a huge banyan tree.
