In the city of Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan, there exists a tradition so unique and thunderous that it has become an iconic symbol of the city’s culture. Witnessing the Tradition of the Karbit cannons is an unforgettable experience, particularly during the festive season of Eid al-Fitr. These aren’t your typical metal cannons; they are massive, hand-made cannons crafted from large hollowed-out tree trunks. The tradition is a loud and joyful celebration, a spectacular event that combines local craftsmanship, community spirit, and a history as old as the city itself. The booming sound of the cannons echoes across the Kapuas River, creating a festive atmosphere that brings people together from all corners of the city. This tradition of loud celebrations with a deep-rooted history is a truly special part of Pontianak’s identity.
The history of the Karbit cannon tradition is deeply tied to the founding of Pontianak. According to local folklore, Sultan Syarif Abdurrahman Alkadrie, the city’s founder, used cannons to drive away pontianak ghosts that were said to haunt the area. The booming sound of the cannons was believed to ward off the spirits, allowing the sultan to establish his kingdom in peace. Over time, the iron cannons were replaced with wooden ones, and the gunpowder was substituted with a mix of calcium carbide (karbit) and water, which produces a highly flammable gas. This gas, when ignited, creates the characteristic thunderous boom. Today, the cannons are not used to fight off ghosts but to celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadan and the arrival of Eid al-Fitr. The tradition is a tribute to the city’s founder and a way to honor its unique history. Witnessing the Tradition of these cannons is a great way to learn about the city’s heritage. On a recent Saturday, March 29, 2025, over 30 teams prepared their cannons along the Kapuas River for the annual competition, highlighting the tradition’s continued popularity.
The event is a vibrant community spectacle. Teams of men, often from the same village or neighborhood, spend days or even weeks meticulously crafting and decorating their cannons. The cannons, which can be up to 7 meters long, are often painted with intricate motifs and colors, making them works of art in their own right. The highlight of the event is the competition, where teams fire their cannons in a synchronized and rhythmic manner, creating a cacophony of sound that can be heard for miles. The atmosphere is filled with excitement, anticipation, and a strong sense of friendly rivalry. The local government and the police department, including officers from the Pontianak Police Department, play a vital role in ensuring the event is safe and well-organized. A police report from Wednesday, March 26, 2025, noted that safety patrols were in place along the river to ensure the security of spectators and participants. Witnessing the Tradition of the Karbit cannons is a powerful cultural experience, a chance to see a living legacy that connects the past with the present. It is a loud, proud, and joyful celebration that captures the unique spirit of the people of Pontianak.