This research reinterprets the iconic figure of Cut Nyak Din within the Acehnese resistance against Dutch colonial rule, revealing how her depiction as a religious and nationalist heroine is shaped by both colonial and nationalist narratives. By examining Dutch colonial texts alongside Acehnese oral traditions, the study illustrates the strategic manipulation of her story, reflecting broader socio-political agendas. This analysis not only challenges traditional gender roles but also enhances our understanding of how historical memories are governed and utilized in shaping national identities and freedom movements. The findings underscore the complex interplay between gender, religion, and nationalism, offering new insights into the construction of historical narratives and their implications for contemporary interpretations of freedom and resistance. This contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic socio-political fabric of Southeast Asia, highlighting the role of cultural resilience and adaptive memory in the face of colonial and post-colonial challenges.
This paper reevaluates the portrayal of Cut Nyak Din (1848-1908), an iconic figure in Acehnese resistance against Dutch colonial rule, examining how her image as a religious and nationalist heroine was sculpted by both colonial and post-colonial narratives. Analyzing Dutch texts and Acehnese oral traditions, it reveals the strategic use of her story in constructing national identity and advancing socio-political agendas. The study highlights the intersection of gender and religion in nationalistic discourse, challenging traditional gender roles and illustrating the manipulation of historical memory. Cut Nyak Din's transformation into a symbol of freedom and resistance offers insights into the governance of historical narratives, reflecting broader themes of cultural resilience and the complexities of freedom movements within Southeast Asia.