The Development of Politics and Government
Sultan Suryanullah continued to expand the region. Areas of influence
his power extends to Sukadana (now in West Kalimantan) and
Kotawaringin (now in Central Kalimantan).
To strengthen his position, the relationship with Demak continues to be woven. Kingdom
Banjar regularly sends tribute to Demak. When Demak experienced
setbacks, tribute delivery stopped.
In 1665 there was war between the kingdom of Banjar against Tuban and Surabaya.
In the period 1622 - 1637 there was also hostility between Banjar and
Mataram. Because the threat of VOC increasingly strong and trying to force
monopoly, Banjar relationship with Mataram began to be improved.
In 1606 the VOC entourage came to Banjarmasin. They want to hold
contract and impose trade monopoly on the territory of Banjar Kingdom. This matter
rejected by the Banjar. Even the leader of the VOC entourage, Gilles Michelszoorn
killed. Likewise, when the VOCs came to Sambas in 1610
for the same purpose, they are not accepted even killed.
Finally in 1635, the VOC successfully entered into a contract. Monopoly of trade
VOC. Implemented in Banjarmasin. In its development, it turned out to be a monopoly
VOC can not run. This is because many traders from Makasar, Java,
and China are free to trade with Banjarmasin. Raja Banjarmasin then
ask the VOC to return to Batavia. Opposition with VOC encourages
Banjar relations with Mataram and Banten are getting better.
The kingdom of Banjar has known bureaucracy regularly. Structure
governance is organized as follows.
- King (sultan) as supreme ruler.
- Mangkubumi (patih) is the vice-king and as the chief executive
government. This position is usually held by a noble family
near the king.