Ogan Komering Ilir Regency

History

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History and Development of Ogan Komering Ilir Region

Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) is one of the oldest and largest regencies in South Sumatra Province, with an area of 17,114.68 km². Geographically, this region is located in the central part of South Sumatra and directly borders eight administrative regions, making it an important node in the historical dynamics of Sumatra Island.

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Origins and Sultanate Era

The historical roots of Ogan Komering Ilir cannot be separated from the glory of the Sriwijaya Kingdom and later the Palembang Darussalam Sultanate. The names "Ogan" and "Komering" are taken from the two large rivers that divide this region, which have long been the lifeline of transportation and trade. During the Palembang Sultanate era, the OKI region was known as the "Marga" area. This traditional governance structure was led by a Pasirah who had full authority over the management of natural resources, including the Lelang Lebak Lebung tradition—a freshwater fishery management system that has existed since the 18th century and is still preserved today as intangible cultural heritage.

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Dutch Colonial Era

During the Dutch colonial period, based on Staatblad Number 123 of 1906, this region was part of the Palembang Residency and was divided into several Onderafdeeling. Kayuagung, which is now the regency capital, grew as an economic center due to its strategic location. During this period, the Dutch began to introduce large-scale plantation systems, but the local people maintained their independence through handicrafts. One unique historical fact is the existence of pottery craftsmen in Kayuagung and iron smiths whose products were distributed even outside the South Sumatra region.

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Independence Struggle and Regency Formation

Following the proclamation of August 17, 1945, the people of Ogan Komering Ilir actively participated in defending sovereignty. Local figures like Lieutenant Mukhtar Saleh became symbols of resistance against Dutch military aggression in this region. Administratively, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency was officially formed on October 11, 1945, which was later strengthened through Law Number 28 of 1959. In the early period of independence, OKI encompassed a very large area before eventually undergoing regional expansion, including the formation of Ogan Ilir Regency in 2003.

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Cultural Heritage and Modern Life

OKI has a specific cultural richness, one of which is the "Midang" tradition. Midang is a traditional costume parade usually held on Eid al-Fitr in Kayuagung. This tradition is rooted in respect for ancestors and a symbol of the local community's social status. In addition, historical sites such as ancient graves along the Komering River show the influence of local cultural assimilation with Islamic values brought by the religious scholars in the past.

Today, Ogan Komering Ilir has transformed into a national palm oil and rubber plantation industry center. The development of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road that crosses this region further emphasizes OKI's strategic role as a major link between Lampung and Palembang, while continuing its historical legacy as a vital trade route since the kingdom era.