Alas Roban: Traces of History, Mystery and Hidden Natural Wealth

Alas Roban, a winding path that holds a dark history and mystical stories full of mystery, is now a fertile location for various agricultural products such as the distinctive horn banana and various abundant tropical fruits.

Located in Batang Regency, Central Java, Alas Roban is not just an ordinary transportation route. Behind the lush trees and steep winding roads, this area holds a dark story that still lingers to this day.

In addition to being known for its mystical aura, Alas Roban is also rich in agricultural products, especially the horn banana which is the characteristic of the area.

For drivers who often cross the Pantura route, the name Alas Roban may be familiar. This road is famous for its haunted stories circulating in the community. However, behind the mystical story, Alas Roban has a long history and natural wealth that is interesting to explore further.

History of Alas Roban: Dark Trail Behind the Legendary Trail

The history of Alas Roban began during the Dutch colonial era, when Herman Willem Daendels built the Post Road in 1811. The line connecting Anyer to Panarukan was an ambitious project that used forced labor.

Thousands of indigenous people were forced to work in appalling conditions. Many died from exhaustion, disease, or even merciless execution. It is said that the bodies of these workers were buried around Alas Roban, strengthening the impression of this Haunted Forest.

Further back, during the Islamic Mataram era, the Alas Roban area was planned to be used as rice fields. However, the forest clearing process was hampered because workers were reported to often fall ill and die mysteriously. According to legend, this area is inhabited by spirits who oppose the destruction of the forest.

A powerful figure named Bahurekso is said to have succeeded in conquering the supernatural creature. However, he had to agree to the condition that the genies there would get a share of the harvest produced from the area.

The Mysteries and Myths Surrounding Alas Roban

Alas Roban has a strong haunted reputation. One of the reasons is the dark events during the New Order government, when a mysterious shooting or what is known as the Petrus incident occurred.

Endah Sri Hartatik in her book Dua Abad Jalan Raya Pantura (2020) noted that local people often found burlap sacks containing the bodies of Petrus victims dumped in the Alas Roban area. In fact, it is not uncommon to find money near the bodies, which is thought to be for their funeral expenses.

The story adds to the spooky feel of this trail. Many believe that the spirits of the victims of forced labor and the Petrus tragedy still haunt the area.

In the 90s, night bus drivers were known to be very reluctant to stop at Alas Roban. One of the unique ways they used to ensure safety was by lighting a match.

It is said that the light from the fire was believed to be able to distinguish real humans from supernatural beings who tried to hitch a ride on their vehicles.

Mystical Stories and Accident Incidents in Alas Roban

Some of the mystical events that are quite well known in the Alas Roban area include:

1. Mysterious Accident Incident

The winding, uphill and poorly lit Alas Roban route is an accident-prone location. Many incidents occur mysteriously and are often associated with the existence of supernatural beings.

YouTuber and spiritual practitioner, Om Hao from the Kisah Tanah Jawa channel, once reviewed the mystery of Alas Roban. In his exploration, he found a large banyan tree known as Ringin Putih, which is believed to be the nest of spirits.

2. Place of Disposal of Peter’s Victims

The mysterious shooting tragedy in the 1980s left a dark mark on Alas Roban. Victims who were mysteriously killed were often found in sacks dumped in this area. This incident further strengthens the mystical and spooky impression of this route.

Location and Access to Alas Roban

Alas Roban is part of the Pantura route that connects Banten to Banyuwangi. There are three main routes that can be taken by drivers, namely:

• Jalan Poncowati (old route): Usually used by heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses.
• South Ring Road: An alternative route often used by large trucks.
• Pantura Road: The route more commonly used by private vehicles.

The winding, steep and poorly lit road conditions mean drivers are advised to be more careful when crossing this area, especially at night.

Natural Wealth Behind Mystical Stories

Although famous for its spooky stories, Alas Roban has abundant natural resource potential. One of its mainstay commodities is the horn banana, known locally as the byar banana. The horn banana from Alas Roban has its own uniqueness:

• The tree can grow up to 2 to 3 meters tall.
• One bunch of bananas can reach one meter in length with 8 to 13 combs.
• The weight of one bunch of bananas can reach 30 kilograms.
• Apart from the horn banana, this area is also known as a producer of various tropical fruits such as soursop, jackfruit, breadfruit, durian and rambutan.

Along the Alas Roban route, there are rows of small stalls called pondokan. These huts have been around since the Dutch colonial era and are a favorite place for passers-by to buy fresh fruits.

Safe Tips for Crossing Alas Roban

To make your journey safer when crossing Alas Roban, here are some tips you can apply:

• Avoid traveling at night to reduce the risk of accidents and mystical events.
• Check the condition of your vehicle before starting your journey, especially the brakes and lights.
• Do not stop carelessly in quiet areas and far from residential activities.
• If you feel tired, use the available parking pocket areas to rest safely.
• Be polite and respect local beliefs to make your trip more peaceful and comfortable.

Alas Roban is not only about mystical stories and dark history, but it is also known as a Haunted Place that holds abundant natural wealth. By understanding the history, myths, and uniqueness of this region, we can better appreciate the cultural heritage attached to this legendary route.

For those of you who plan to cross Alas Roban, prepare your trip well and stay alert so that your trip is safe and comfortable.