Upaya Penetapan Istana Niat Lima Laras sebagai Objek Cagar Budaya Peringkat Kabupaten Batubara

Abstract

This study aims to describe the process of designating the Niat Lima Laras Palace as a cultural heritage object in Batu Bara Regency, North Sumatra, using the cultural preservation theory of R.M. Sedyawati (2007). The palace is a historical legacy of the Kedatukan Lima Laras, built by Datuk Muhammad Yuda Sri Diraja in the early 20th century. Its historical value lies in its role as a center of traditional governance and a symbol of resistance against Dutch colonialism. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method through heuristic analysis, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography of the documents produced during the Cultural Heritage Expert Team (TACB) session of Batu Bara Regency. Based on Sedyawati's theory, preservation does not only refer to the physical aspects of the object but also includes the preservation of its social meanings, cultural values, and historical functions. The findings show that the Niat Lima Laras Palace fulfills three dimensions of cultural heritage preservation: (1) historical value, as it is directly connected to significant historical events and key Malay traditional figures; (2) socio-cultural value, as the palace is still used in customary rituals and community deliberations; and (3) architectural value, as it exhibits a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and European styles. The designation process involved the inventory of Potential Cultural Heritage Objects (ODCB), field verification, TACB deliberations, and the issuance of the Regent’s Decree No. 406/DISPORABUDPAR/2024. This study concludes that the designation of the Niat Lima Laras Palace as a cultural heritage site reflects the implementation of value-based and community-participatory cultural preservation. The main recommendations include strengthening revitalization programs, promoting local cultural education, and adaptive preservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of this cultural legacy in the future.