Sitangkai, a municipality steeped in legend, derives its name from a captivating tale of a beautiful Sama teenager, the beloved daughter of a certain Panglima who met an untimely death and was buried in the land of Saluru. Known by her pen name “Tangkai,” derived from the Sinama word “atangkai-tangkai,” she was celebrated for her graceful neck, which complemented her striking beauty. For the Sama people, visiting her grave has become a cherished tradition, symbolizing their enduring love and respect.

According to local lore, whenever Panglima would pass by, relatives and friends would greet him, inquiring, “Where are you going?” To which he would reply, “To visit the grave of Tangkai.” In 1900, the name “Tangkai” was transformed into “Saluru.”

In the early 1900s, specifically in 1903, the island began to gain recognition as “Sitankan,” which later evolved into “Sitangki” in 1918, named after a Chinese national named Tang Kay, who was known for owning a water tank—referred to in the native dialect as “tangkih.”

By 1939, this serene island had officially adopted the name “Sitangkai.” A Chinese businessman later corrected the spelling to “SyTangkai” in 1948, but today, it is proudly known as “Sitangkai.” This evolution of names reflects not only the island’s rich history but also the blending of cultures that have shaped its identity over the years.

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