What is most intriguing about this history book? In this current moment, where the issue of young leadership is being questioned, the figure of Hayam Wuruk stands out. Let’s learn from history: historia docet.
There is an aura for those in power. Ascending the throne. Entering the royal seat. Then being crowned (not with thorns but with gold) to become a king.
So, a young age is not an obstacle for someone destined to rule and govern.
In history, many young leaders have emerged and achieved great success in their leadership. Mentors, support from those around them, and good education can play a significant role in shaping these young leaders.
In the case of Hayam Wuruk, the mentorship provided by Gajah Mada was crucial in helping Hayam Wuruk understand the duties and responsibilities of a king. Gajah Mada was a highly influential and experienced official, and his influence in shaping Hayam Wuruk’s leadership cannot be ignored.
Hayam Wuruk was born in 1334 as the son of Raden Wijaya, the first king of Majapahit, and Tribhuwana Wijayatunggadewi, the daughter of Jayanagara, a king of the Singhasari Kingdom. When he was still young, Hayam Wuruk was brought to the palace and given a good education, including in the fields of culture, language, and religion.
Similarly, in many cases, family, advisors, teachers, or other senior figures often become the main support for young leaders. They provide guidance, knowledge, and the necessary support to help young leaders understand their duties and responsibilities properly.
With the right guidance, support, and education, young leaders can develop into effective leaders who can fulfill their responsibilities well, even in challenging situations. This underscores the importance of mentorship and support in the process of shaping effective young leaders.
Hayam Wuruk Hayam Wuruk is a renowned king of the Majapahit Kingdom in the land of Java. He reigned from 1350 to 1389 AD.
The process of Hayam Wuruk coming to power involved the role of his uncle, Gajah Mada. He was mentored, educated, trained in such a way that he had extensive political mastery.
Hayam Wuruk was born in 1334 as the son of Raden Wijaya, the first king of Majapahit, and Tribhuwana Wijayatunggadewi, the daughter of Jayanagara, a king of the Singhasari Kingdom. When he was still young, Hayam Wuruk was brought to the palace and given a good education, including in the fields of culture, language, and religion.
- Youth and Mentoring by Gajah Mada:
Gajah Mada is an important figure in Majapahit, and he became a mentor to Hayam Wuruk. Gajah Mada was a highly respected and influential Patih (highest official) in the kingdom. He taught Hayam Wuruk about the art of governance, ethics, and the responsibilities of a king. This close relationship gave Hayam Wuruk a deep insight into the duties of leadership. Joint Governance with Gajah Mada: In 1350, after his mother, Tribhuwana, abdicated, Hayam Wuruk succeeded her as king. Gajah Mada remained the highest authority in Majapahit as the Patih, and they co-ruled. This joint rule was known as “Dasa Warsa,” which means “ten years,” and it lasted from 1350 to 1360. - Fame and Greatness:
Under the leadership of Hayam Wuruk and with the assistance of Gajah Mada, Majapahit reached its golden age. Majapahit became one of the largest kingdoms in Southeast Asia and an important trade center. They expanded their territorial control and maintained stability at home. The reign of Hayam Wuruk is known as the golden era of Majapahit. - Gajah Mada’s Palapa Oath:
One significant moment in Majapahit’s history is Gajah Mada’s oath, known as the “Palapa Oath.” In this oath, Gajah Mada pledged that he would not feel satisfied or happy until the entire archipelago (Indonesia) was under the rule of Majapahit. Hayam Wuruk is one of the most famous kings in the history of the archipelago. The success and greatness of his reign are inseparable from the learning and mentorship provided by Gajah Mada, as well as their dedication to the prosperity and stability of the kingdom.
Hayam Wuruk’s best practices make us ashamed to underestimate a young age.
In reality, he is the greatest king in the history of the Majapahit dynasty!
