E.C (Electrische Centrale) Manggar – Belitung timur

E.C (Electrische Centrale) Manggar – Belitung timur

By Danish Athilah

E.C (Electrische Centrale) was one of the important buildings built in Bukit Samak - Kec. Manggar Belitung Timur in 1909 by a Dutch company, Billiton Maatschappij. Billiton Maatschappij is one of a company that belong to the Dutch kingdom, that had the authority to mine tin in the Bangka, Belitung and other places during the colonial period. It is so phenomenal for the story of the E.C building, and not a single Belitung resident doesn't know his name.

The building is a diesel-powered station. In 19th century, E.C was claimed to be the largest diesel power plant in Southeast Asia. The diesel engine as the power generator was updated in 1955 by bringing in a 4 stroke, 10 cylinder diesel engine produced by Stork-Hesselman - the Netherlands. This machine is capable of producing 2400 HP with a power output of 1650 KW. No half-hearted a lake also functioned as a source of cooling for the engine. We can feel the vibration of the engine up to a radius of approximately 1 km.

And with such a big power capacity, E.C was able to meet the electricity needs in 4 districts at that time. Several large tanks have been prepared on another place, that is on the beach not far from the E.C building. It is used to accommodate the diesel fuel supply. Some people in Belitung know the place. It is called the Olie Pier. Olie Pier actually in Dutch means like an oil base/port.

But sadly, the old building that should have been used as a monument to commemorate the golden age of tin mining on Belitung Island. The building now has been destroyed by irresponsible hands. Only the ruins of the building can be seen. This incident occurred when Belitung was experiencing difficult times with PT. Timah. Most of the building materials, especially parts made from iron and copper, were the target of looting by these irresponsible elements. Like several other Dutch-built buildings, it is said that a Dutch bride and groom, complete with their wedding attire, were also buried in a special room at the base of the E.C building as a sacrifice. Whether it's true or not, this myth has become the story for the local resident until day.