Central Lampung

History

#

History and Development of Central Lampung Regency: The Heart of Sang Bumi Ruwa Jurai

Origins and Colonial Era

Central Lampung Regency has strong historical roots originating from the Pepadun customary order. Historically, this region was an important seat for the Lampung indigenous people, especially from the Abung Siwo Mego clan (Marga) who inhabited river basins like Way Seputih and Way Terusan. The name "Lampung Tengah" geographically refers to its position as the central point in Lampung Province, making it a vital connector since ancient times.

During the Dutch colonial era, this region began to undergo significant transformation through the first Transmigratie (Transmigration) policy in Indonesia. In 1905, the Dutch East Indies government moved residents from Bagelen, Central Java, to the Gedong Tataan area, which later expanded to areas in Central Lampung such as Metro and Punggur. This made Central Lampung the first social laboratory for ethnic integration in the archipelago, creating a unique blend of local Lampung culture with Javanese traditions.

Independence Era and Administrative Formation

After the proclamation of Indonesian independence, the administrative status of this region was confirmed through Law Number 4 of 1946. However, formally juridically, the formation of Central Lampung Regency was established based on Law Number 28 of 1959 concerning the Formation of Second Level Regions in Sumatra. In the early period, the regency capital was in Metro before it was eventually moved to Gunung Sugih based on Government Regulation Number 39 of 1999.

A crucial historical event was the expansion of the region. Initially, Central Lampung was the largest regency in Lampung Province. However, for bureaucratic efficiency, this region was expanded into three parts in 1999, namely Central Lampung Regency, East Lampung Regency, and Metro City. Although its area decreased to 4,568.92 km², its position remained strategic as it directly bordered 11 other administrative regions, including Tulang Bawang, North Lampung, and East Lampung.

Cultural Heritage and Local Identity

Central Lampung is the cultural center of Lampung Pepadun, which recognizes a system of customary castes and Begawi ceremonies. One prominent historical site is the megalithic site and ancient relics at several points along Way Seputih, indicating that this region has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The presence of the Tugu Canang in Gunung Sugih serves as a symbol of honor and a traditional communication tool that is still respected today.

Modern Development and National Contribution

In national economic history, Central Lampung has transformed into a food barn and an agro-industrial center. The presence of large companies like Great Giant Pineapple (GGP) places Central Lampung on the global trade map as one of the world's largest canned pineapple producers. The development of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, which passes through this region, further solidifies its historical role as a transportation hub on the island of Sumatra.

Overall, the history of Central Lampung is a narrative of cultural assimilation, food security, and administrative evolution that reflects the dynamics of Indonesia's development from the colonial era to the era of regional autonomy.

Geography

#

Geographical Profile of Central Lampung Regency

Central Lampung is the largest regency in Lampung Province with a total area of 4,568.92 km². Administratively and geographically, this region holds the status of the "heart" of the province due to its location precisely in the central part (cardinal position tengah). As a landlocked region, Central Lampung does not have a coastline, but it plays a vital role as a land transportation hub connecting various regions in Sumatra.

##

Topography and Landscape

The landscape of Central Lampung is dominated by relatively flat lowlands with altitudes ranging from 25 to 100 meters above sea level. Although it does not have active volcanoes within its borders, the western topography borders the Barisan Mountains, which contribute to elevation variations. The region is characterized by fertile river valleys, with a hydrological system centered on Way Seputih and Way Terusan. These large rivers flow through the regency, providing irrigation for thousands of hectares of agricultural land before emptying into the East Lampung Coast.

##

Climate and Weather Patterns

Central Lampung has a tropical wet climate with seasonal variations influenced by monsoon winds. Average daily temperatures range from 24°C to 33°C with relatively high humidity. The dry season usually lasts from June to September, while the rainy season occurs between October and April, with the highest intensity in January. Abundant rainfall (averaging 2,000–3,000 mm per year) makes this region ideal for year-round agricultural activities.

##

Natural Resources and Agriculture

The main geographical strength of Central Lampung lies in its fertile soil, classified as red-yellow podsolic and latosol. This makes the regency a primary food barn. Its superior commodities include food crops such as rice and corn, as well as large-scale plantations like sugarcane, cassava, and pineapple. Central Lampung is known as the largest tapioca producer in Indonesia. In the forestry sector, there are production forest areas managed to maintain local ecosystem balance.

##

Connectivity and Borders

Geographically, this region is located between 4°30’–5°15’ South Latitude and 104°35’–105°50’ East Longitude. Its unique geography is marked by its direct borders with 11 administrative regions (regencies/cities), including North Lampung, Tulang Bawang, East Lampung, and Pesawaran. This strategic position makes Central Lampung an economic meeting point and logistics distribution center in the southern part of Sumatra Island.

##

Ecological Zones and Biodiversity

Although dominated by cultivated land, Central Lampung still has ecological zones in the form of freshwater swamps in the east and limited conservation areas. Local biodiversity includes various species of water birds along the Way Seputih river and flora typical of Sumatra's lowlands. Efforts to preserve green corridors remain a focus amidst the rapid expansion of agricultural industrial land to maintain groundwater recharge.

Culture

#

Cultural Richness of Central Lampung: The Heart of Sang Bumi Ruwa Jurai Tradition

Central Lampung is the largest land area in Lampung Province, possessing unique characteristics as a "non-coastal" (landlocked) region. With an area of 4,568.92 km², this regency serves as a melting pot of highly heterogeneous cultures, bringing together indigenous Lampung people with transmigrants from various parts of the archipelago.

##

Customs and Life Philosophy

The indigenous people of Central Lampung are dominated by the Pepadun customary community, especially from the Abung Siwo Mego and Pubian Telu Suku clans (kebuyutan). Unlike coastal communities that tend to be aristocratic, the Pepadun customs in Central Lampung are democratic. This is reflected in the Cakak Pepadun tradition, a procession of ascending customary status where an individual can obtain an honorary title (Adok) through deliberation and the slaughter of a certain number of buffaloes. The life philosophy of Piil Pesenggiri remains the primary moral compass, encompassing principles of self-respect, hospitality (Nemui Nyimah), and mutual cooperation (Sakai Sambayan).

##

Arts: Traditional Dance and Music

Performing arts in Central Lampung are deeply imbued with sacred nuances. Tari Pengunten is often performed as a welcoming dance for honored guests, while Tari Cangget is a mandatory dance in customary wedding ceremonies or title conferrals. Traditional music is dominated by the sounds of Talo Balak (large gongs) and Kelittang, which accompany customary processions. The uniqueness of this region is also evident in the Javanese-Lampung cultural assimilation through Kuda Lumping art, often performed in transmigration areas, creating a distinctive cultural harmony.

##

Traditional Textiles and Attire

The visual identity of Central Lampung is closely associated with Kain Tapis. In this region, Tapis often features denser motifs with gold thread embroidery depicting flora, fauna, or the bamboo shoot motif. During customary ceremonies, men wear Kikat (head covering) and Sarung Tumpal, while women wear the characteristic Pepadun Siger (gold crown) with nine curves, symbolizing the nine major clans of Abung Siwo Mego.

##

Culinary Delights and Eating Traditions

Gastronomically, Central Lampung offers strong flavors. Seruit is a must-try dish consisting of grilled fish mixed with shrimp paste chili sauce, tempoyak (fermented durian), and various fresh vegetables (sekubal). Additionally, there is Gulai Taboh, which uses thick coconut milk and river fish. In a social context, there is the Nyuncun Paha tradition, where women carry food on their heads in large trays to be brought to the homes of customary elders or during religious celebrations.

##

Language and Dialect

The local community uses the Lampung Language, O Dialect (Dialek Nyow). The firm pronunciation of the "o" vowel distinguishes it from coastal communities who use the A Dialect. The use of phrases like "Nyow kabar?" (How are you?) and "Pekhittos" are characteristic of daily communication in traditional markets like in Bandar Jaya.

##

Religion and Festivals

Religious life in Central Lampung is very tolerant. Besides Islamic celebrations like Eid al-Fitr, which is celebrated with the Punggahan tradition, the regency also has a large Hindu community in areas like Seputih Raman. Annual festivals like Kopiah Emas serve as a platform for all sub-districts to showcase their local cultural potential, from customary parades to Lampung oral literature competitions, Pisaan.

Tourism

#

Exploring the Charm of the Heart of Sang Bumi Ruwa Jurai: Tourism in Central Lampung

Central Lampung is the largest regency in Lampung Province, covering an area of 4,568.92 km². As a region located precisely in the center of the province and bordering 11 other regencies/cities, it serves as a major connectivity hub on the island of Sumatra. Although it lacks a coastline, Central Lampung offers rich agricultural tourism, unique transmigration culture, and captivating inland landscapes.

##

Natural Wonders and Family Recreation

Without the sea, Central Lampung maximizes its potential from rivers and man-made parks. Danau Tirta Gangga in Seputih Banyak is a unique icon; a lake with a temple in its center, providing an atmosphere similar to Bali. For waterfall enthusiasts, Curup Tujuh in Margajaya offers a challenging adventure with seven tiers of waterfalls surrounded by pristine tropical forests. Additionally, Taman Wisata Kopiah Emas in Gunung Sugih presents panoramic views of hills with a replica of a giant kopiah (traditional cap) that serves as a symbol of pride for the Pepadun community.

##

Cultural Footprints and Multicultural Harmony

The main strength of Central Lampung lies in its cultural acculturation. Visitors can explore tourist villages rich in Lampung Pepadun customs, such as in Sesat Agung. On the other hand, due to its long history of transmigration, you will find very authentic pockets of Javanese and Balinese culture. The presence of magnificent temples in and around the Seputih Raman area creates a cultural landscape rarely found elsewhere in Sumatra.

##

Outdoor Adventures and Agrotourism

For outdoor activity lovers, this region offers massive agrotourism experiences. You can visit international-scale pineapple and sugarcane plantations in the Great Giant Pineapple area. Exploring the green expanse of plantations by off-road vehicle or simply taking photos in the hilly areas of Kalirejo provides a refreshing visual experience. Observing wild elephants can sometimes be a bonus when traversing routes bordering protected forest areas.

##

Local Cuisine and Flavor Experiences

Culinary tourism in Central Lampung is a blend of local spices and Javanese culinary influences. Fresh river Pindang Baung with its spicy and sour broth is a must-try dish. Don't miss Seruit, a typical Lampung dish of grilled fish served with shrimp paste chili sauce, tempoyak (fermented durian), and fresh vegetables. For souvenirs, banana chips and robusta coffee from local plantations are top choices.

##

Accommodation and Best Time to Visit

Central Lampung has complete accommodation facilities, ranging from star hotels in the city center of Bandar Jaya to community-based homestays in tourist villages. The best time to visit is from May to September during the dry season, making access to Curup Tujuh Waterfall easier. Visits during local holidays or regency cultural festivals are also highly recommended to witness the grand customary title conferment ceremonies (Adat Pepadun) firsthand.

Economy

#

Economic Profile of Central Lampung Regency: Lampung's Agrarian and Industrial Heart

Central Lampung Regency is a primary economic pillar in Lampung Province. With an area of 4,568.92 km², this regency holds a strategic role as a land transportation hub in the middle of Sumatra Island. Unlike coastal regions, Central Lampung is entirely landlocked and borders 11 administrative regions, making it a vital logistics distribution center.

##

Superior Agricultural and Plantation Sectors

The economic dominance of Central Lampung lies in its agricultural sector. This region is known as a national food barn, especially for rice, corn, and cassava commodities. Central Lampung is the largest producer of cassava in Indonesia, supporting the supply chain for large-scale tapioca flour industries. Besides food crops, plantation sectors such as sugarcane, pineapple, and oil palm are export drivers. The presence of giant companies like Great Giant Pineapple (GGP) makes this region one of the world's largest canned pineapple exporters, integrating precision agriculture systems with processing industries.

##

Industrialization and Manufacturing

The economic transformation from agrarian to manufacturing industry is very massive in the corridor from Terbanggi Besar to Humas Jaya. Food processing industries, sugar factories (such as Gunung Madu Plantations and Sugar Group Companies), and CPO (Crude Palm Oil) processing plants dominate the economic landscape. The presence of these industries creates a multiplier effect for local MSMEs through partnership systems. Although it does not have a maritime economy due to its landlocked geographical location, Central Lampung maximizes freshwater fisheries potential through cultivation in ponds and cages along the Way Seputih river.

##

Connectivity and Strategic Infrastructure

The economic growth of Central Lampung is strongly driven by transportation infrastructure. The presence of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) with several toll gates in this region (such as GT Gunung Sugih and GT Terbanggi Besar) has significantly reduced logistics costs. This has spurred the growth of the service sector, hotels, and warehouses around the Gunung Sugih government center and the Bandar Jaya trade center.

##

Traditional Crafts and Creative Economy

In the creative sector, Central Lampung maintains its identity through Tapis fabric crafts. Tourist villages like Payung Rejo are beginning to develop economies based on local wisdom. Additionally, processed cassava products such as instant tiwul and chips are flagship products that penetrate the national market.

##

Employment Trends and Future Outlook

Employment trends show a gradual shift from the primary agricultural sector to the formal sector in manufacturing and services. The local government is now focusing on developing integrated Industrial Estates to attract broader investment. With stable agricultural raw material supply and a geographical position right in the "heart" of Sumatra's transit routes, Central Lampung is projected to remain the most stable economic growth center in Lampung Province.

Demographics

#

Demographics of Central Lampung Regency: The Population Heart of Lampung Province

Central Lampung Regency is the second largest administrative region in Lampung Province, covering an area of 4,568.92 km². As a non-coastal area located in the central cardinal position, this regency functions as a major land transportation hub on the island of Sumatra. This characteristic significantly influences its unique and heterogeneous population dynamics.

Population Size, Density, and Distribution

Central Lampung holds the title of the regency with the largest population in Lampung Province, with a total population exceeding 1.5 million people. The population density reaches approximately 320 to 340 people per km². Population distribution is concentrated in economic buffer areas such as Terbanggi Besar District, Gunung Sugih as the government center, and Kalirejo. Unlike coastal areas, settlements here are spread evenly along the national cross-road and the Way Seputih irrigation network.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

This regency is known as a "Miniature of Indonesia" due to its long history of massive transmigration in the past. The Javanese ethnic group is the majority, followed by indigenous Lampung people, Sundanese, Balinese, and people of Chinese descent. The existence of villages with specific cultural characteristics, such as Balinese settlements in Seputih Raman, creates a plural demographic landscape. The harmony between the indigenous Lampung community (especially Pepadun) and the migrants is a social characteristic that strengthens regional stability.

Age Structure and Population Pyramid

The population structure of Central Lampung is dominated by the productive age group (15-64 years), which accounts for over 68%, indicating a demographic bonus. The population pyramid is expansive with a wide base in the young age groups, although the birth rate trend is showing stabilization due to the success of family planning programs at the village level.

Education and Literacy

The literacy rate in Central Lampung has reached over 96%. The community's education level is dominated by high school graduates (SMA/SMK). The local government continues to strive to improve access to higher education through the presence of various local colleges and academies, to support the sugar and pineapple processing industries that are the backbone of the region's economy.

Urbanization and Migration Patterns

Population dynamics are strongly influenced by circular migration patterns. As an agro-industrial center, Central Lampung attracts many workers from neighboring regencies such as North Lampung and Tulang Bawang. Although dominated by agricultural areas, urbanization patterns are evident in the emergence of sub-district towns that have developed into trade centers (such as Bandar Jaya). Population mobility is very high due to its geographical position directly bordering 11 other administrative regions, making it a major transit area for human movement along the Trans-Sumatra corridor.