Pati Unus

Pati Unus (also known as Patiunus or Prince Sabrang Lor) was a Javanese prince and military commander from the Demak Sultanate who lived in the early 16th century. He is best known for leading two major naval expeditions against the Portuguese in Malacca in 1512 and 1521. While these expeditions ultimately failed to dislodge the Portuguese, they demonstrated the naval power of Demak and established Pati Unus as a national hero in Indonesia.

The first expedition in 1512, though unsuccessful, proved that the Javanese were a force to be reckoned with. The second and larger expedition in 1521, involving a large fleet of Javanese and Malay ships, was a significant undertaking. Pati Unus himself commanded this fleet, which was ultimately defeated by the Portuguese. He is said to have died during this battle, though accounts vary.

Pati Unus is remembered as a courageous leader and a symbol of resistance against European colonialism. His actions are seen as an early attempt to defend the archipelago from foreign domination. His legacy continues to be celebrated in Indonesian history and folklore. He is sometimes referred to as "Prince Sabrang Lor," meaning "Prince Who Crossed the North [Sea]," referring to his voyages to Malacca. His efforts, though unsuccessful in their immediate goal, paved the way for later challenges to Portuguese power in the region.