Bandar Lampung

History

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History and Development of Bandar Lampung City: The Main Gateway of Sumatra Island

Origins and Sultanate Era

Bandar Lampung, which now serves as the capital of Lampung Province, has a long historical root that began from traditional settlements in Lampung Bay. Historically, this region was an important part of the Banten Sultanate's influence since the 16th century. During the reign of Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, the Lampung region became the main supplier of black pepper, a highly valuable commodity in the global market. The name "Bandar Lampung" itself etymologically refers to its function as a port or transit point. On June 17, 1682, a charter agreement between the Banten Sultanate and the VOC marked the beginning of formal colonial intervention in this region, a date later established as the city's anniversary.

Colonial Era and the Impact of the Krakatoa Eruption

During the Dutch occupation, the area was known by two main administrative centers: Tanjungkarang, located on the hills, and Telukbetung, situated on the coast. One of the most transformative events in the city's history was the devastating eruption of Mount Krakatoa on August 27, 1883. This disaster destroyed most of the infrastructure in Telukbetung and triggered a tsunami wave 30 meters high. The post-disaster reconstruction process slowly reshaped the city's layout, with the Dutch beginning to build drainage systems and highways connecting the interior of Lampung to the port for the purpose of exploiting agricultural products.

Struggle for Independence Era

During the Japanese occupation (1942–1945), the region experienced severe economic pressure. However, the spirit of resistance among the people of Lampung remained strong. Local figures like KH Ghalib led the people's movement against the invaders. After the proclamation of independence in 1945, Bandar Lampung witnessed the struggle to defend sovereignty during the First and Second Dutch Military Aggressions. Through Law Number 28 of 1959, the administrative status of this region began to be clarified, until finally in 1983, the administrative unification of Tanjungkarang City and Telukbetung City officially formed the Municipality of Bandar Lampung.

Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Culturally, Bandar Lampung is a meeting point for the Pepadun and Saibatin indigenous communities. One of the most iconic cultural legacies is the Tapis cloth, a gold thread weaving craft that reflects the social status and life philosophy of the Lampung people. In the city center, the Adipura Monument and Siger Tower stand as symbols of modernity and local identity. Additionally, there is the Sumur Putri site in Telukbetung, closely associated with local folklore about a princess from the Sekala Brak Kingdom.

Modernization and Strategic Role

Although administratively surrounded by three main neighboring regions—South Lampung Regency, Pesawaran Regency, and East Lampung Regency—Bandar Lampung acts as the economic gravity center in southern Sumatra. With an area of 184.57 km², the city is now transforming into a metropolis connecting Java and Sumatra via the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road access. Its long history, from a pepper port to a modern service and trade center, makes Bandar Lampung an important pillar in Indonesia's national development narrative.