Rejang Lebong Regency

History

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History and Development of Rejang Lebong Regency

Rejang Lebong Regency, located in the highlands of the Bukit Barisan Mountains in Bengkulu Province, has a deep historical narrative as one of the oldest regions in South Sumatra. Geographically, this area of 1,525 km² does not border a coastline and is surrounded by eight administrative regions, making it a strategic point in the western part of Sumatra island.

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Prehistoric Roots and Sultanate Era

The history of Rejang Lebong is rooted in the existence of the indigenous Rejang tribe, divided into five major clans or Jurai: Merigi, Bermani, Selupu, Tubai, and Jurukalang. The traditional governance system was led by an Ajai, which later evolved into the Bikau (Bhiksu) system under the influence of the Sriwijaya and Majapahit Kingdoms. One of the respected legendary figures is Bikau Bermano, who is considered to have brought the first social order to this region. The local community historically possessed its own script called Aksara Kaganga (Rejang Script), which proves their high level of literacy civilization long before the arrival of Europeans.

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Colonial Era and Gold Exploitation

The presence of Western nations in Rejang Lebong began with the interest of the British (EIC) through the London Treaty of 1824, but the influence of the Dutch (VOC/Dutch East Indies) became more dominant in the late 19th century. Curup City, as the regency capital, began to develop rapidly when the Dutch discovered gold mining potential in the Lebong Donok area in 1896. This discovery triggered a wave of worker migration and the construction of road infrastructure connecting Curup with the port in Bengkulu. During this period, Rejang Lebong became an important economic center for the Dutch East Indies government in Sumatra due to its mineral wealth and coffee plantation produce.

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Independence Struggle and Military Aggression

During the Japanese occupation and the war of independence (1945–1949), Rejang Lebong served as a guerrilla defense base. Local figures such as Major Salim Batubara and the people's fighters were actively involved in resisting the Second Dutch Military Aggression. The Curup area once served as the seat of the Military Governor of South Sumatra in response to the fall of major cities into Dutch hands. This spirit of patriotism is now immortalized through the Monument of Struggle in the center of Curup city.

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Modernization and Cultural Heritage

After independence, based on Law Number 28 of 1959, Rejang Lebong officially became a regency within South Sumatra Province, before finally joining Bengkulu Province in 1968. The modernization of this region is marked by the diversification of the agricultural and tourism sectors, especially around Mount Kaba and Lake Mas Harun Bastari.

To this day, Rejang Lebong maintains its cultural identity through the traditional ceremony of Kejai, traditional dances, and the preservation of the Rejang language. As a region bordering eight neighbors, Rejang Lebong functions as an educational and trading center in the highlands, integrating local wisdom with the progress of the times without abandoning its historical roots as the great Tanah Rejang.

Geography

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Geography of Rejang Lebong Regency: The Heart of Bengkulu's Highlands

Rejang Lebong Regency is an administrative area located in the heart of the Bukit Barisan Mountains, Bengkulu Province. With an area of 1,524.66 km², this regency is geographically located at coordinates 102°19'–102°57' East Longitude and 3°03'–3°38' South Latitude. Although located in the western part of Sumatra island, this region is entirely surrounded by land (landlocked) and has no coastline. Rejang Lebong directly borders eight administrative regions, including Lebong Regency, North Bengkulu, Kepahiang, Central Bengkulu, and also borders South Sumatra Province (Musi Rawas Regency and Lubuk Linggau).

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Topography and Landscape

The region is dominated by undulating to hilly topography with an average altitude ranging from 600 to 1,500 meters above sea level (mdpl). The most prominent geographical feature is the presence of an active volcano, Mount Kaba (1,938 mdpl), which has twin craters and is the region's volcanological icon. At the foot of the mountain lies the fertile Rejang Valley, a tectonic depression that serves as the center of settlement and economic activity. Furthermore, this region is the headwaters of several major rivers in Sumatra, including the Musi River through its tributaries and the Ketaun River, which flows through steep valleys.

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Climate and Weather Patterns

Due to its location in the highlands, Rejang Lebong has a wet tropical climate that tends to be cool. The average air temperature ranges between 18°C and 24°C, much lower than coastal cities in Bengkulu. Rainfall in this region is very high, reaching 2,300 to 3,500 mm per year, with a long rainy season influenced by the orography of the Bukit Barisan Mountains. These weather patterns create high humidity that supports the formation of morning fog, making it one of the coolest regions in Sumatra.

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Natural Resources and Biodiversity

Rejang Lebong is the food granary for Bengkulu Province. The fertile volcanic soil allows for large-scale horticultural agriculture, especially vegetables, robusta coffee, and citrus fruits. Ecologically, a large part of Rejang Lebong is part of the Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS). This ecological zone is a habitat for rare flora such as Rafflesia arnoldii and Amorphophallus titanum. The tropical rainforests here also serve as an important corridor for endemic fauna such as Sumatran tigers and various primate species. In addition to agricultural potential, the region has geothermal resources around the Mount Kaba complex and mineral reserves scattered in the surrounding hills.

Culture

The Charm of Rejang Lebong Culture: The Heart of Highland Civilization in Bengkulu

Rejang Lebong Regency, located in the highlands of the Bukit Barisan Mountains, is a cultural center of the Rejang tribe, one of the oldest tribes in Sumatra. With an area of 1,525 km² and bordering eight other administrative regions, this area holds intellectual and traditional wealth that remains preserved amidst the cool mountain air.

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Aksara Ka Ga Nga and Language Identity

One of the main unique features of Rejang Lebong is its traditional script called Aksara Rikung or more commonly known as Aksara Ka Ga Nga. This heritage proves the high level of local literacy civilization in the past. The community uses the Rejang language with a distinctive dialect (such as the Rejang Curup Dialect) rich in proverbs or Semawe. The use of this language is still very strong in traditional ceremonies and daily interactions as a binder of social identity.

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Traditional Customs and Religious Ceremonies

The social structure of the community is governed by strong customary law, where Islamic values are harmoniously acculturated with local traditions. One of the most sacred ceremonies is Kedurai Agung, a collective thanksgiving ritual involving the slaughter of a buffalo and communal prayers to seek protection for the land. In the cycle of life, the community recognizes the tradition of Cuci Kampung (village cleansing) if customary norms are violated, a social mechanism to maintain the sanctity and harmony of the village.

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Arts and Textile Heritage

The performing arts sector is dominated by Tari Kejei, a sacred dance that was once only performed during the reception of kings or grand weddings. This dance is performed in pairs with graceful yet firm movements full of meaning. In terms of crafts, Rejang Lebong has Batik Besurek with distinctive calligraphy motifs, but specifically in this region, it is often combined with Rafflesia flower motifs and Aksara Ka Ga Nga. Songket Rejang fabric with gold threads is also a mandatory attribute in traditional ceremonies, symbolizing the wearer's social status and honor.

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Signature Cuisine: The Taste of Fermentation

Rejang Lebong's cuisine offers a uniqueness not found in coastal areas. Its signature dish is Lema, a food made from chopped bamboo shoots mixed with freshwater fish (usually tilapia or gourami), then fermented for several days. Lema has a sharp aroma and a unique sour-spicy taste, usually eaten with raw vegetables. In addition, there is Gulai Jamur Sawit (oil palm mushroom curry) and Curup Robusta Coffee, whose aroma is world-renowned, reflecting the richness of the mountain produce.

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Architecture and Festivals

The traditional Rejang house, called Umeak Keretapi, is a stilt house with floral motifs carved on the pillars and ventilation. Every year, this culture is celebrated through the Festival Danau Mas Harun Bastari and the anniversary celebration of Curup City. During these festivals, various traditional art competitions such as playing Redap (a distinctive Rejang tambourine) and oral literature competitions are showcased, ensuring that the flame of culture in this "Bumi Pat Petulai" continues to burn for future generations.

Tourism

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Exploring the Charm of Rejang Lebong: A Mountain Gem in the Heart of Bengkulu

Located in the western part of Sumatra Island, precisely in the highlands of the Bukit Barisan Mountains, Rejang Lebong Regency offers a different tourist charm from the coastal areas of Bengkulu. With an area of 1,525 km² and surrounded by eight neighboring regions—including Lebong, Kepahiang, and even Musi Rawas—this area is a paradise for lovers of cool air and pristine mountain scenery.

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Natural Wonders and Highland Adventures

Although it has no coastline, Rejang Lebong captivates tourists with the majesty of Mount Kaba (Bukit Kaba). This active volcano is a favorite destination for climbers due to its exotic double crater: an old green crater and a new brownish crater. For beginners, the relatively friendly hiking trail makes the experience of reaching the summit at 1,938 mdpl very memorable, especially when witnessing the sunrise above the sea of clouds.

Besides the mountain, Suban Hot Springs is a unique family tourist icon. Located in Curup, this natural hot spring is believed to have healing properties and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and a 15-meter high waterfall. For a more challenging experience, you can visit Air Terjun Tangga Seribu (Thousand Stairs Waterfall) or enjoy the tranquility of Danau Mas Harun Bastari which has a unique 'C'-shaped island in its center.

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Cultural and Historical Traces

Rejang Lebong is home to the Rejang tribe, one of the oldest tribes in Sumatra. Tourists can visit various historical sites and traditional houses that reflect the rich local culture. One unique experience is interacting with the local community to see Kaganga script, the ancient indigenous Rejang writing that is still preserved. In the center of Curup city, the presence of Dutch colonial heritage buildings also adds a strong historical nuance for history tourism enthusiasts.

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Local Cuisine and Gastronomic Experience

A trip to Rejang Lebong is incomplete without tasting Lempuk Durian and Tat, sweet traditional cakes. However, the culinary highlight here is the fresh vegetable dishes, as Curup is the vegetable granary of Bengkulu Province. Don't miss the chance to try fresh Sambal Unji (torch ginger flower chili paste) or Sate Gurita (octopus satay) if you visit the night culinary market. Rejang Lebong Robusta Coffee, which is world-renowned, must be enjoyed directly at local cafes with its strong mountain soil aroma.

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Accommodation and Best Time to Visit

The hospitality of the local residents is reflected in the proliferation of agrotourism-based homestays around the foothills of Mount Kaba, in addition to star hotels in the center of Curup city. The best time to visit is during the dry season between May and September to get clear weather for hiking. If you want to experience the cultural festivities, come during the anniversary celebration of Curup City in May, where art festivals and a large night market are held to welcome tourists.

Economy

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Economic Profile of Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu

Rejang Lebong Regency is a vital economic pillar in Bengkulu Province, located in the Bukit Barisan highlands. With an area of 1,515.83 km², this regency is geographically an inland (landlocked) region bordering eight neighboring areas, including South Sumatra Province. This geographical characteristic shapes a unique economic structure, dominated by the agricultural and inter-provincial trade sectors.

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Agriculture and Horticulture Sector: Sumatra's Vegetable Granary

The agricultural sector contributes the largest share to Rejang Lebong's Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). Thanks to fertile volcanic soil and a cool microclimate, this region is known as the "Vegetable Granary" for the southern Sumatra region. Leading commodities include mustard greens, cabbage, tomatoes, and chili peppers, which are marketed as far as Palembang, Jambi, and Linggau. Besides vegetables, Robusta Coffee is a flagship export commodity. Rejang Lebong coffee has gained international recognition, driven by the emergence of various MSMEs processing green beans and ground coffee under local brands that penetrate modern retail markets.

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Processing Industry and Traditional Crafts

The processing industry in Rejang Lebong focuses on downstream agricultural products. There is a massive palm sugar (Gula Merah) processing center in Selupu Rejang District. This local palm sugar is not only sold in traditional molded form but is also being developed into ant sugar for the food industry and cafes. In the craft sector, woven bamboo and rattan, as well as "Ka Ga Nga" (Rejang script) motif batik fabric, are creative economy products that enliven the home industry sector.

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Tourism and Service Economy

As a non-coastal region, Rejang Lebong relies on mountain natural tourism. Destinations such as Suban Hot Springs and Lake Mas Harun Bastari are drivers of the service economy. The presence of the Rafflesia arnoldii flower, which often blooms in protected forest areas, also attracts foreign tourists, impacting the occupancy rate of hotels and tour guide services in Curup.

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Infrastructure and Trade Connectivity

Although it does not have a maritime economy due to its landlocked position, Rejang Lebong functions as a land logistics hub. The main cross-road connecting Bengkulu City with Lubuklinggau (South Sumatra) cuts through this regency, making it a trade transit center. The development of agricultural road infrastructure continues to be pushed to reduce logistics costs for vegetable farmers.

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Labor Trends and Economic Challenges

The majority of the workforce is absorbed in the agricultural sector (around 60-70%). However, there is a trend of young people shifting to the service sector and digital economy in Curup city. The main economic challenge for the region is the fluctuation in vegetable commodity prices and the need for post-harvest technology modernization to make local products more competitive in the national market. With sustainable development, Rejang Lebong remains the main economic driver in the western part of Sumatra Island.

Demographics

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Demographic Profile of Rejang Lebong Regency

Rejang Lebong Regency, located in the Bukit Barisan highlands of Bengkulu Province, has unique demographic characteristics as a non-coastal mountainous region of 1,525 km². With a strategic position in western Indonesia bordering eight administrative regions, this regency functions as a connectivity hub between the Bengkulu coast and the interior of South Sumatra.

Population Density and Distribution

Based on the latest data, the population of Rejang Lebong reaches over 280,000 people with an average population density of 184 people/km². Population distribution is concentrated in the "Golden Triangle" area, which includes Curup, Central Curup, and East Curup Districts. Unlike its peripheral areas dominated by plantations, the urban area of Curup has a very high density, reflecting the concentration of economic and administrative activities.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Diversity

The demographics of Rejang Lebong are characterized by a harmonious dualism between the indigenous Rejang tribe and the Lembak tribe. The uniqueness of this region lies in its status as a "Melting Pot" in Bengkulu; historical migration through transmigration programs has brought significant populations of Javanese, Sundanese, and Minangkabau tribes. This diversity creates a rich linguistic landscape, where the Rejang language with the Curup dialect coexists with Indonesian in daily interactions.

Age Structure and Education

The population structure of Rejang Lebong shows an expansive pyramid trend with a dominance of the productive age group (15-64 years) reaching over 68%. The literacy rate in this region is very high, exceeding 98%, supported by Curup's status as an educational city at the regional level. The presence of higher education institutions such as IAIN Curup and Pat Petulai University attracts incoming migration of students from neighboring regencies like Lebong and Kepahiang.

Urbanization and Migration Patterns

The rural-urban dynamics in Rejang Lebong are heavily influenced by the horticulture sector. There is a seasonal migration pattern where residents from rural areas move to the city center for large-scale vegetable trading. Additionally, as a major land transit region, Rejang Lebong experiences dynamic population mobility. Outward migration is usually driven by the pursuit of higher education to Java island, while inward migration is dominated by the trade and service sectors that utilize the regency's geographical position as the eastern gateway of Bengkulu Province.