South Sumatra

Srivijayan Expansion

Buddha Seguntang Palembang

Talang Tuo Inscription

Mahmud Badaruddin II

Masjid Agung Palembang

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Feestelijke samenkomst te Sekayu Palembang Zuid-Sumatra TMnr 10002981

South Sumatra (Indonesian: Sumatera Selatan) is a province of Indonesia. Located on the southeast of the island of Sumatra, the province is rich in culture, history, and natural resources. The capital of South Sumatra is Palembang, which is also one of the oldest cities in Indonesia and was once the capital of the Srivijaya maritime empire.

Geography

South Sumatra is bordered by the provinces of Jambi to the north, Bengkulu to the west, and Lampung to the south. To the east, it faces the Java Sea. The province covers an area of approximately 91,592 square kilometers, making it one of the larger provinces on the island of Sumatra. The landscape is characterized by a combination of lowlands, swamps, and hills, with the Bukit Barisan mountain range running along its western border. The Musi River, one of the longest rivers in Sumatra, flows through the province and is a vital waterway for transportation and economy.

History

The history of South Sumatra is deeply intertwined with the Srivijaya Empire, a dominant maritime power that controlled trade routes in Southeast Asia from the 7th to the 13th centuries. The empire's capital, Palembang, was a center of Buddhist learning and commerce. After the decline of Srivijaya, the region came under the influence of various other powers, including the Javanese Kingdoms, the Dutch East Indies, and eventually became part of independent Indonesia.

Economy

South Sumatra's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. The province is one of Indonesia's leading producers of palm oil, rubber, and coffee. Coal mining and oil and gas exploration have also become important economic activities, with the province holding some of Indonesia's largest coal reserves. In addition, South Sumatra is working to develop its tourism sector, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Culture

The culture of South Sumatra is a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic periods. Traditional music, dance, and textile weaving, such as the renowned Songket fabric, are important aspects of South Sumatran culture. The province is also famous for its culinary heritage, with dishes like Pempek, a savory fishcake delicacy, being popular throughout Indonesia.

Demographics

The population of South Sumatra is ethnically diverse, with the largest ethnic groups being the Malays, the Javanese, and the Komering, among others. Islam is the predominant religion, followed by Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The province is also home to several indigenous communities who live in the more remote areas.

Administration

South Sumatra is divided into several regencies and cities, each governed by a regent or mayor. The province is administered by a governor, who is elected by the population. The current administrative structure aims to promote local autonomy and development in line with national policies.

Tourism

Tourism in South Sumatra is growing, with attractions ranging from natural wonders like the Lake Ranau, the second largest lake in Sumatra, to historical sites in Palembang, such as the Ampera Bridge and the Sriwijaya Kingdom Archaeological Park. The province also hosts various cultural festivals and events that attract visitors from across Indonesia and beyond.