West Tulang Bawang Regency

History

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History and Development of West Tulang Bawang Regency

Origins and Traditional Era

West Tulang Bawang Regency (Tubaba) is rooted in the grand history of the Tulang Bawang Kingdom, one of the oldest kingdoms in the Nusantara, whose traces were recorded by the Chinese explorer I-Tsing in the 7th century under the name "To-Lang P'oh-Huang". Traditionally, this region was the core part of the Megalouw (Four Clans) customary law, consisting of Marga Buay Bulan, Buay Tegamoan, Buay Suway Umpu, and Buay Aji. The life of the past community centered along the Kiri and Kanan river flows (Way), which served as the lifeline for transportation and trade of forest commodities and pepper.

Colonial Era and Independence Struggle

During the Dutch colonial period, this region was part of the Onderafdeling Tulang Bawang administration. The colonial government began to notice the agricultural potential of this area for large-scale plantations. Entering the era of independence, the role of local figures from North Lampung and Tulang Bawang was crucial in defending sovereignty from military aggression. This region became a guerrilla route for fighters moving in the interior of Lampung to avoid Dutch patrols on the coastal routes.

Formation of an Autonomous Region

The modern history of West Tulang Bawang as an independent administrative entity began with the aspirations of the community to accelerate development in the interior of Lampung. After previously being part of North Lampung Regency and then Tulang Bawang Regency, Tubaba officially stood as its own regency based on Law Number 50 of 2008. This inauguration was carried out on October 29, 2008, by the Minister of Home Affairs Mardiyanto, with Bachtiar Basri as the first Acting Regent who later became a key figure in laying the foundation for the region.

Modern Development and Iconic Architecture

With an area of 1,272.66 km² located in the center (heart) of Lampung Province, Tubaba borders seven administrative regions, including Mesuji, Way Kanan, and Central Lampung. Under the leadership of Regent Umar Ahmad, Tubaba has undergone a unique cultural and architectural transformation. Development is not only physical but also value-based. The establishment of the Afterlife Complex, which includes the Baitus Shobur Mosque (Mosque of 99 Lights) and the Sesat Agung Traditional Hall, symbolizes the syncretism of religious values and local wisdom. The Megalouw Monument, featuring reliefs of clan leaders' faces on a rock cliff, serves as a reminder of lineage and clan honor.

Cultural Heritage and Identity

The people of Tubaba still hold firmly to the philosophy of Nengah Nyappur (openness in socializing) and Piil Pesenggiri (maintaining self-esteem and honor). Although it does not have a coastal area, its cultural richness is reflected in traditional dances such as the Sembah Dance and the oral tradition of Pepadun. Today, Tubaba has transformed from a transmigration and rubber plantation area into a tourist destination based on philosophical architecture, connecting the historical narrative of the past with a vision for a sustainable future in the heart of Lampung.