Senior Archaeological Expert, Prof. Agus Aris Munandar Calls Artifacts In Galunggung Must Get Serious Government Attention

TASIKMALAYA - Prof. Dr. Agus Aris Munandar, a senior archaeological expert from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that artifacts in the Galunggung area, especially the Punden Berundak Temple and the Pangcalikan Stone in Parigi, are historical assets that are very valuable and require more attention from the government.

"This ARtefak is not just a petilasan, but a Punden is Activating with a structure that is in accordance with the ancient Sundanese culture. Even though it is small in size, the structure consists of three leaves by ending at its peak, as well as a barrier in front and back which functions as a pole that rejects reinforcements," said Prof. Agus who visited the site Monday, September 10.

He also explained that Punden Berundak is similar to the one on Mount Penangsungan, East Java, which was used as a place of worship in the early century. "Usually, pilgrims will circle Punden three times as a symbol of self-sufficiency," he continued in a written statement received Tuesday, September 11.

This visit was carried out with a team of senior researchers from the University of Indonesia, accompanied by national cultural figures, Inspector General Purn Anton Charliyan. This team consists of 11 experts, including Prof. Dr. Pujiastuti Point, ancient script expert, and Prof. Tuti Nur Muas, a history expert.

During his visit, Prof. Agus also highlighted the discovery of the Pangcalikan Stone, which is a flat rock in front of Batu Satangtung. "This stone serves as a place of service for ancestors and is an important part of past rituals," he explained.

According to Prof. Agus, the artifacts found in Galunggung, including Punden Berundak and Batu Pangcalikan, as well as Circle Stone in Jahyang, have great historical value. Therefore, he urged the government and related parties to conduct more in-depth research and pay serious attention to this discovery.

Inspector General Retired Anton Charliyan, who is usually called Abah, who is also the General Chair of the Archipelago Cultural Cross and PWI advisers, also appreciated the arrival of the expert team. "The arrival of this team is a great honor for the people of Parigi. We hope that Prof. Agus and his team will not get tired of giving directions and guidance to the Galunggung Expedition Team who continue to conduct research on historical sites in this area," he concluded.