Padang Negeri Palace

Exploring the Glorious Traces of Padang Negeri Palace: A Symbol of Sovereignty on the Tebing Tinggi

Padang Negeri Palace is more than just an old building standing amidst the hustle and bustle of Tebing Tinggi City, North Sumatra. This historical site is a silent witness to the existence of the Padang Kingdom, a Malay political entity that once flourished in the surrounding Deli region. Located on Jalan KH. Ahmad Dahlan, this palace represents the cultural identity of the Malay people in Tebing Tinggi and serves as a reminder of the traditional governance system that once held sovereignty long before Indonesia's independence.

#

Historical Origins and Establishment

The history of Padang Negeri Palace cannot be separated from the history of the Padang Kingdom itself. This kingdom was founded around the early 17th century, specifically in the 1600s. According to historical records, the founder of this kingdom was Raja Umar (titled Maharaja Muda Sangkunur), who was a descendant of the nobility of the Pagaruyung Kingdom in Minangkabau who migrated to the eastern coastal region of Sumatra.

The construction of the palace building whose remnants we see today is a structure built during the reign of the 5th King, Raja Marah Hakum. The palace was completed around the 1800s and became the administrative center and official residence for the royal family. The choice of location in Tebing Tinggi was based on its strategic position on the banks of the Padang River, which at that time was a vital transportation route for the trade of agricultural products such as pepper and forest produce.

#

Architecture and Construction Details

Padang Negeri Palace displays a distinctive Malay Deli architectural style mixed with colonial touches and traditional Minangkabau influences. The original building was a stilt house, a functional design to avoid the threat of floods from the overflowing Padang River and attacks from wild animals in the past.

The main building materials are dominated by high-quality woods, such as damar laut and tembesu, known for their durability for hundreds of years. The roof has a steep pitch, very effective for draining rainwater in the tropical climate. One prominent characteristic is the presence of bamboo shoot carvings on the eaves and balcony railings, which in Malay philosophy symbolize the hope for continuous growth and benefit to others.

The color yellow dominates the building's facade, which in Malay tradition is the highest color symbolizing the greatness, glory, and sovereignty of the sultan or king. Large windows in the jalousie style show adaptation to European architecture, providing maximum air circulation within the spacious palace rooms.

#

Historical Significance and Important Events

During its golden age, Padang Negeri Palace was a center of diplomacy in the East Sumatra region. The Padang Kingdom was known as an independent kingdom, although it often had to engage in political negotiations with the Deli Sultanate and the Dutch colonial government.

The most memorable event in the historical memory of this palace is the period of physical revolution after Indonesia's independence in 1946, known as the "East Sumatra Social Revolution." During that time, many palaces and noble families in East Sumatra became targets of mass actions. Padang Negeri Palace was also affected by this upheaval, which resulted in a drastic decline in the political role of the royal family. However, unlike some other palaces that were burned down, the physical structure of Padang Negeri Palace was still preserved, although it suffered damage in several parts.

#

Important Figures and Royal Genealogy

Several key figures who left their mark on this palace include Raja Marah Hakum and his successor, Raja Syahbudin. Under their leadership, the Padang Kingdom succeeded in developing an advanced agricultural system and maintaining regional stability from external influences. This royal family was also known for its adherence to Islamic law, which later made the palace a center for the development of Islamic propagation in Tebing Tinggi.

To this day, descendants of the Padang Kings still inhabit or care for the area around the palace as customary custodians. Their presence ensures that traditions such as Malay customary ceremonies, welcoming honored guests with betel leaf offerings, and the preservation of the local dialect of the Malay language remain alive.

#

Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

Currently, the condition of Padang Negeri Palace is a serious concern for historians and cultural activists. Over time, several parts of the building have deteriorated. Although designated as a Cultural Heritage Site by the Tebing Tinggi City Government, comprehensive restoration efforts still face challenges related to funding and land ownership.

In recent years, the local government has begun minor renovations to the roof and repainting to maintain the building's aesthetics. The palace area is now often used as a historical research location for students, a venue for the Tebing Tinggi City anniversary ceremony, and a historical tourist destination for international tourists, especially from Malaysia and Singapore who have an emotional connection to Malay history.

#

Cultural and Religious Importance

For the people of Tebing Tinggi, Padang Negeri Palace is the "anchor" of their identity. Religiously, this palace is closely related to the construction of old mosques in its vicinity. The existence of this palace reinforces that Islam and Malay customs are inseparable (Custom is based on Sharia, Sharia is based on the Book of Allah).

During every major celebration, such as Eid al-Fitr or the Prophet's Birthday, the extended royal family usually holds gatherings that also involve the general public. This shows that although the political power of the kingdom has ended, the social and cultural influence of Padang Negeri Palace remains deeply rooted in the hearts of the people.

#

Conclusion: Unique Facts

One unique fact about Padang Negeri Palace is the existence of an ancient cannon buried around the palace area, believed to be a defense tool when facing attacks from the river. Furthermore, the palace's layout facing directly towards the sunrise holds a philosophical meaning about the beginning of life and new hope every day.

Padang Negeri Palace is not just a pile of wood and cement, but a grand narrative about how a community built a civilization on the banks of a Sumatran river. Preserving this palace means safeguarding the dignity and long history of Tebing Tinggi City from being lost to time.