The City of Palembang, A City with the Epitome of Venesia From The East

Palembang city is the capital of South Sumatra province. Palembang is the second largest city in Sumatra after Medan. The city of Palembang has an area of 358.55 km² which is home to 1.8 million people with a population density of 4,800 per km². It is predicted that by 2030 the city will be inhabited by 2.5 million people. The construction of LRT (railway), and the plan of GP motor circuit construction in Jakabaring and F1 circuit in Tanjung Api-Api area, is the latest development project of Palembang City.

The history of Palembang, which was once the capital of the largest Buddhist monarchy of Southeast Asia at the time, the Sriwijaya Kingdom, which dominated the archipelago and the Malay peninsula in the 9th century also made this city known as the "Bumi Sriwijaya". Based on inscription Kedukan Bukit found in Bukit Siguntang west of Palembang City which states the formation of a wanua interpreted as a city on June 16, 688 AD makes the city of Palembang as the oldest city in Indonesia. In the Western world, the city of Palembang is also dubbed the Venice of the East ("Venice of the East"). Currently the mayor of Palembang is held by H. Harnojoyo, S.Sos.

History

The city is considered to be one of the centers of the Sriwijaya kingdom, the Rajendra Chola Raid of the Chola Kingdom in 1025, causing the city to become a simple harbor no longer meaningful to foreign merchants. Furthermore, based on Chinese chronicle Pa-lin-fong's name contained in the Chu-fan-chi book written in 1178 by Chou-Ju-Kua was referred to Palembang. Based on the story of Kidung Pamacangah and Babad Arya Tabanan mentioned a figure from Kediri named Arya Damar as regent of Palembang participated conquering Bali along with Gajah Mada Mahapatih Majapahit in 1343.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the city of Palembang was occupied by pirate Chen Zuyi who came from China. The pirate fleet Chen Zuyi was later crushed by Admiral Cheng Ho in 1407. Then around 1513, Tomé Pires a Portuguese pharmacist mentions Palembang, has been led by a designated patih from Java who was later referred to the Demak Sultanate as well as participated in attacking Malacca which time it has been mastered by the Portuguese.

Palembang emerged as a sultanate in 1659 with Sri Susuhunan Abdurrahman as its first king. But in 1823 the sultanate of Palembang was abolished by the Dutch East Indies government. After that Palembang is divided into two major residencies and settlements in Palembang are divided into areas Ilir and Ulu.

Geographical situation

Geographical location

Geographically, Palembang is located at 2 ° 59'27.99 "LS 104 ° 45'24.24" BT. The total area of Palembang City is 358.55 km² with an average height of 8 meters from sea level. Palembang location is quite strategic because it is traversed by Sumatra Cross road that connects between regions on the island of Sumatra. Palembang itself can be reached through flights from various cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Bandar Lampung, Bengkulu, Pangkal Pinang, Tanjung Pandan (via Pangkal Pinang), Jambi, Lubuk Linggau, Padang, Pekanbaru, Batam, Medan Denpasar-Bali. As well as from abroad namely Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jeddah (hajj season) In addition there is also in Palembang Musi River which is crossed Ampera Bridge and serves as a means of transportation and trade between regions.

Palembang climate is a tropical climate with relative humid wind, wind speeds ranging from 2.3 km / h - 4.5 km / hour. The city temperature ranges from 23.4 - 31.7 degrees celsius. Annual rainfall ranges from 2,000 mm - 3,000 mm. Air humidity ranges from 75 - 89% with 45% sun radiation average. Soil topography is relatively flat and low. Only a small part of the city whose land lies on a rather high place, in the northern part of the city. Most of the soil is a swampy area so that during the rainy season the area is inundated. Average altitude between 0 - 20 m above sea level.

In 2002 the city's minimum temperature occurred in October 22.70C, the highest 24.50C in May. While the lowest maximum temperature of 30.40C in January and the highest in September of 34.30C. Plainland not inundated: 49%, seasonally inundated soil: 15%, constantly inundated soil: 37% and number of functioning rivers 60 fruits (from the previous 108) remaining functioning as primary drainage channels.

Tropical humid relative, temperature between 220-320 Celsius, rainfall 22-428 mm / year, tidal influence between 3-5 meters and an average land height of 12 meters above sea level. Types of alluvial, clay and sandy land Palembang lay in the youngest layer, containing much oil, also known as the Palembang - Jambi valley. The soil is relatively flat and low, a rather high place lies in the northern part of the city. Some Palembang city is flooded with water, especially if there is continuous rain.

Population

The population of Palembang is ethnic Malay and uses Malay language that has been adapted to the local dialect which is now known as the Palembang Language. However, migrants often use their local language as a colloquial language, such as Komering, Rawas, Musi, Pasemah, and Semendo. Outsiders from outside South Sumatra sometimes also use their local language as a colloquial language in a family or regional community. But to communicate with other Palembang residents, the population generally uses the Palembang language as a language of daily delivery. In addition to the natives, in Palembang there are also immigrants and citizens of descendants, such as from Java, Minangkabau, Madura, Bugis and Banjar. The descendants of many who live in Palembang are Tionghoa, Arab and Indian. The city of Palembang has several areas that are characteristic of a community such as Kapitan Village which is the area of Chinese Community and Al Munawwar Village, Assegaf Village, Al Habsyi Village, Kuto Batu, 19 Ilir Kampung Jamalullail and Kampung Alawiyyin Bayas River 10 Ilir which is the Community Area Arab.

Tourism

Tourist attraction

Musi River, a river along the 750 km that divides the City of Palembang into two parts, namely Seberang Ulu and across Ilir is the longest river on the island of Sumatra. Since the first Musi River has become the economic pulse in the city of Palembang and South Sumatra Province. Along the banks of this river there are many attractions such as Ampera Bridge, Kuto Besak Fortress, Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum, Kemaro Island, 16 Ilir Market, Rakit house, Pertamina oil refinery, PUSRI fertilizer factory, Bagus Yellow beach, Musi II Bridge, Mosque Al Munawar, etc.

Ampera Bridge, a magnificent bridge along the 177 meters crossing over the Musi River that connects the area Seberang Ulu and Seberang Ilir is an icon of Palembang. The bridge was built in 1962 and built using Japanese spoils as well as experts from Japan.

Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin I Palembang Sultan Mosque, located in the center of Palembang City, this mosque is the largest mosque in South Sumatra with capacity 15.000 pilgrims.

Kuto Besak Fort, located on the banks of the River Musi and adjacent to the Ampera Bridge, this fort is one of the heritage buildings Palembang Darussalam Sultanate. On the inside of the fort is the health office of Sriwijaya Kodam II and the hospital. This fort is the only fortress in Indonesia which is stone walled and qualifies fortifications / defense built at its own expense for defense purposes of the European enemy attack and not named the hero of Europe.

The mayor's office building, located in the center of the city, originally served as a water tower because it serves to drain water throughout the city so it is also known as the Ledeng Office. Currently this building serves as the Office of the Mayor of Palembang and there are spotlights at the top of the building that beautify the face of the city at night.

Kambang Iwak Family Park, a tourist lake located in the middle of the city, close to the residence of the mayor of Palembang. On the shore of this lake there are many family recreation arena and crowded visited on holiday. Also in the middle of this lake there is a fountain that looks beautiful at night.

Forest Tourism Punti Wood, a jungle city tour located about 7 km from the city center with an area of 50 ha and since 1998 designated as a protected forest. Inside the forest there is a family recreation area and a residence of a group of local monkeys.

Archaeological Park of the Kingdom of Sriwijaya, a relic of the Sriwijaya Kingdom located on the banks of the Musi River. There is a royal stone stone inscription in this area.

Archaeological Park Bukit Siguntang, located in the hills west of Palembang. In this place there are many relics and ancient tombs of Sriwijaya Kingdom.

The People's Struggle Monument, located in the center of the city, is adjacent to the Great Mosque and Ampera Bridge. In accordance with its name in this building there are objects of historical relics in the colonial period.

Balaputradewa State Museum, a museum that holds many relics of the Kingdom of Sriwijaya.

Museum of Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, located near Ampera Bridge and Kuto Besak Fortress and formerly one of Palembang Darussalam palace relics. Inside there are many historical objects of Palembang City.

Textile Museum, located on Jl. Merdeka this museum stores textile objects from all regions in South Sumatra Province.

Tengkurep Crater

Cheng Ho Mosque Palembang

Soei Goeat Kiong Pagoda (Oldest Pagoda in Palembang)

Kampung Kapitan

Al Munawwar Arab Village 13 Ulu

Fantasy Island

Nice Yellow

Songket Craft Center

Kemaro Island

Pertamina Oil Refinery

Pupuk Pusri Factory

Gerong River

Jakabaring Sport City (JSC)

Waterboom OPI Jakabaring

The Amanzi Waterpark CitraGrand City

Rumah Mak Bani Montok

Aisle of Asia

Art and culture

The old history of Palembang as well as the entry of migrants from other regions, has made this city a multi-cultural city. Once lost the function as a large port, the population of this city then adopted coastal Malay culture, then Java. Until now this can be seen in the culture. One of them is language. Words like "lawang (door)", "gedang (banana)", is one such example. The title of nobility is also nuanced Javanese, like Raden Mas / Ayu. The tombs of Islamic relics are not different shapes and shades with Islamic tombs in Java.

The arts in Palembang include:

Art Dul Muluk (traditional drama performances typical of Palembang)

Dances such as Gending Sriwijaya held as a welcome to the guests and dance that was exhibited in the reception Tanggai wedding

Syarofal Anam is an Islamic arts brought by Arab merchants once, and became famous in Palembang by KH. M Akib, Ki Pack H. Umar and S. Abdullah bin Alwi Jamalullail

Regional Songs such as Melati Karangan, Sangke Deck, Cuk Mak Ilang, President Director and Ribang Kemambang

Rumah Adat Palembang is Rumah Limas and Rumah Rakit

In addition Palembang City store one of the best textiles in the world that is songket. Palembang songket cloth is one of the relics of Sriwijaya Kingdom and among the family of cloth woven cloth is often referred to as Ratunya Kain. Until now songket fabric is still made by woven manually and using traditional looms. Since ancient times songket cloth has been used as a customs clothing royal. Common colors used songket cloth is the color of gold and red. These two colors represent the golden age of the Sriwijaya Kingdom and the influence of China in the past. Materials used to produce this gold color is a gold thread imported directly from China, Japan, and Thailand. This golden thread that makes the price of songket cloth soar and make it as one of the best textiles in the world.

In addition to songket cloth, Palembang community is currently actively developing a new type of textile called batik Palembang. Unlike the Java batik, Palembang batik looks more cheerful because it uses bright colors and still retain traditional local motifs.

The city of Palembang also holds various festivals every year such as "Sriwijaya Festival" every June in order to commemorate the anniversary of Palembang, Bidar Festival and Ornamental Boat celebrating Independence Day, as well as various festivals commemorating the New Year Hijriah, Ramadhan and New Year.

Typical food

The city has a fairly large Chinese community. Foods such as pempek or tekwan made from fish impressed "Chinese taste" is thick on the people of Palembang.

Pempek, a typical food of Palembang that has been famous throughout Indonesia. By using the main ingredients of fish and sago meat, Palembang community has successfully developed the basic ingredients into various types of pempek by varying the contents and other additives such as chicken eggs, fish skin, and tofu on the basic ingredients. Variety types of pempek contained in Palembang include pempek submarine, pempek lenjer, pempek curling, pempek adaan, pempek skin, pempek tahu, pempek pistel, pempek shrimp, pempek lenggang, pempek bakang, pempek split and pempek brain - brain. As a complement to eat pempek, Palembang people usually add black-colored sauce made from red sugar stew, chillies and dried shrimp that the local community called vinegar sauce (cuko).

Tekwan, a typical food of Palembang with a fish-like fish-based soup made of fish and sago formed small - similar to fish meatballs, then added shrimp broth as gravy, and soun and ear mushrooms as a complement.

Model, similar to tekwan but the basic ingredients of fish and sago meat formed resemble pempek tahu then cut a small small and added shrimp broth as a soup and soun as a complement. There are two types of models, namely Model Fish (Model Iwak) and Wheat Model (Model Gendum).

Laksan, pempek lenjer thick, cut transversely and then watered with hot coconut milk.

Dimple, like laksan, it's just dough pempek formed like bigger tekwan and doused with coconut milk.

Mie Celor, made from yellow noodle with size rather big like soba noodles from Japan, doused with soup broth sauce and shrimp meat.

Burgo, made from rice flour and sago flour formed like a rolled-up dadar which is then sliced, enjoyed with coconut milk.

Lakso, made from rice flour, similar to Burgo, but textured noodles.

Martabak HAR, is a typical food from India that is under by Haji Abdul Razak. Based wheat flour, which is given duck eggs and chicken eggs, sauce made from goat curry mixed with potatoes.

Pindang Patin, one of the typical food of Palembang which is based on catfish meat which is boiled with spicy seasoning and usually added pineapple slice to give fresh taste. Delicious eaten with warm white rice, tasty savory, spicy and fresh.

Pindang Bone, bone-based bovine with a bit of meat that is still attached and marrow in the bone, boiled with spicy seasoning, as well as pindang patin, this food is delicious eaten as a side dish with warm white rice.

Malbi, similar to rendang, just tastes a bit sweet, berkuah and tasty.

Tempoyak, a typical food of Palembang which is based on durian fried meat with chili and onion slices, it looks like a sauce and is usually eaten as a food supplement, it feels unique and tasty.

The brain, the pempek variant that has spread all over Indonesia, is similar to pempek that is dicocol with coconut sauce and then wrapped in banana leaves, cooked by baking on the embers and usually eaten with chilli / peanut sauce.

Kemplang, pempek lenjer, thinly sliced and then dried in the sun to dry. After dry kemplang can be cooked by frying or baked until fluffy.

Crackers, like kemplang, only the dough is formed circular, dried, and then fried.

Cake Maksubah, a typical cake Palembang-based main duck eggs and sweetened condensed milk. In making the required eggs can reach about 28 grains. The dough is then processed like a layer pastry dough. It tastes good, sweet and legit. This cake is believed to be one of the palace palace palembang palace which is often served as a dish for the guest of honor. But now this maximized cake can be found all over Palembang and is often served during holidays.

Cake Eight Hours with a dough like maximal cake, this cake as the name suggests because in the process of making it takes eight hours. Palembang typical cake is also often served as a dish for guests of honor and is often served in the feast.

Srikayo cake made from egg and pandan leaves, shaped like pudding. This green cake is usually eaten with sticky rice and has a sweet and legit taste.

Hotel

The star hotels in Palembang include:

Aryaduta Hotel and Convention Center *****

Novotel Hotel & Residence *****

The Arista Hotel Palembang *****

Horison Hotel Optima Palembang *****

Aston International & Conferrence Hotel ****

Hotel Sandjaja ****

Hotel Batiqa ****

Hotel Sintesa Peninsula ****

The Jayakarta Daira Hotel ****

Hotel Swarna Dwipa ****

Hotel Grand Zuri ***

Rio City Hotel ***

Hotel Royal Asia ***

SwisBelin Hotel ***

Hotel Lembang ***

Hotel Princess ***

Hotel King's (burned out and will be reopened) ***

Hotel Amaris ***

Grand Duta Syariah Hotel ***

Fave Hotel ***

Hotel Emilia ***

Hotel Zuri Express **

Hotel Duta **

Maxone Hotel **

Hotel Tours **

Sriwijaya Hotel **

Hotel Budi **

Hotel Paradise **

Hotel Bumi Asih **

Hotel Arjuna **

Hotel Anugerah **

Hotel Safa Marwah

Home Inn Hotel Palembang

Hotel Alam Sutra

Denpasar City is the capital of Bali Province, Indonesia

The growth of the tourism industry on the island of Bali drove the city of Denpasar to become the center of business activity, and placed the city as an area with high per capita income and high growth in Bali Province. The government will prepare three cities, namely Medan, Denpasar, and Makassar as a new metropolitan city. Spatial three cities were included in the National Spatial Plan (Perpres 45/2011).

History

The name Denpasar comes from the word 'den' (north) and 'market' so that overall means "North Market". Denpasar was originally a park. But the park is not like the park in general, because it is a favorite park of the king badung at that time, Kyai Jambe Ksatrya. At that time, Kyai Jambe Ksatrya lived in Puri Jambe Ksatrya, which is now the Pasar Satria. This park is unique, because it comes with a place to play cockfighting. Kyai Jambe Ksatrya's hobby is playing cockfighting, therefore it is not uncommon for the king to invite other kings in Bali to play cockfighting in the park.

Previously this area is part of the Kingdom of Badung, a kingdom that had stood since the 19th century, before the kingdom was subdued by the Dutch on September 20, 1906, in a heroic event known as the War Puputan Badung.

After the independence of Indonesia, based on Law Number 69 Year 1958, Denpasar became the capital city of the local government of Badung Regency, then based on Decree of Minister of Home Affairs No. Dec.52 / 2 / 36-136 dated June 23, 1960, Denpasar was also designated as the capital city for the Bali Province which was originally based in Singaraja.

Then based on Government Regulation No. 20 of 1978, Denpasar officially became '' Denpasar Administrative City '', and along with the ability and potential of its territory in carrying out regional autonomy, on January 15, 1992, based on Law Number 1 Year 1992, and Denpasar City was upgraded to 'municipality' ', which was later inaugurated by the Minister of the Interior on 27 February 1992.

Administrative division

Administratively the city government consists of 4 districts, 43 villages or kelurahan with 209 hamlets. Currently the Denpasar City Government has developed various innovations in improving services to its people, among them starting to fix the population administration system.

The subdistricts in Denpasar City are:

West Denpasar

South Denpasar

East Timur

North Denpasar

Geography

The city of Denpasar is at an altitude of 0-75 meters above sea level, located at 8 ° 35'31 "to 8 ° 44'49" south latitude and 115 ° 00'23 "to 115 ° 16'27" east longitude. While the total area of Denpasar City 127,78 km ² or 2.18% of the total area of Bali Province. From the use of the land, 2,768 Ha is paddy land, 10,001 ha is dry land and the remaining area of 9 Ha is other land. The average rainfall rate is 244 mm per month, with high rainfall occurring in December. While the average air temperature is about 29.8 ° C with a low average of about 24.3 ° C.

Read to : Ubud, a must-visit destination if you go to Bali in Indonesia

Economy

Tourism development has a strong effect on structure change and economic improvement in Denpasar City. However, the structure of the economy of Denpasar is slightly different when compared with the economic structure of the Province of Bali in general, by placing the trade sector, hotels and restaurants dominate the formation of Gross Regional Domestic Product (PDRB) Denpasar.

Participate also boost the economy of Denpasar City is the production of handicraft items in the form of handicrafts for souvenirs, such as carvings and sculptures. However, the handicraft industry is under pressure, as well as the impact of the crisis and inter-regional rivalry, other pressures from other Asian emerging Asian rivals such as Vietnam, Thailand, India, Malaysia and China. This competitor country is more maximize the scale of production by utilizing industrial technology, while in the city of Denpasar this handicraft industry still maintain the hand skill (hand made) so that the constraints on the fulfillment of the quantity of production.

Transportation

Benoa Harbor is the entrance to Denpasar City by sea and is currently managed by PT Pelindo III. The port is located about 10 km from the city center, and has been operating since from 1924.

Land transportation facilities in Denpasar City, especially for urban transport, are now beginning to be ineffective and efficient, until 2010 only 30% are still operating, along with the reduced public interest to use the transport services, which is estimated to be only about 3% of the total population . While private vehicle ownership growth continues to increase to 11% per year, and is not comparable with the construction of new roads. So that the congestion in the city of Denpasar can not be avoided. on August 18, 2011 Trans Sarbagita was launched in response to the congestion that occurred in Denpasar City with 2 corridors namely Corridor 1 Kota - GWK and Corridor 2 Batubulan - Nusa Dua.

In addition Denpasar has Bali Mandara Toll Road which has 4 lanes and opened to certain circles on 23 September 2013. This toll road is then opened to the public on October 1, 2013, connecting the Port of Benoa, Ngurah Rai Airport and Nusa Dua. The 12.45 km road is also built with a special line for the motor.

Sports, art, and culture

The main club of football Perseden Denpasar is a soccer club pride of the people of Denpasar, and make Ngurah Rai Stadium as the headquarters and place of the match home games.

While art and culture in the city of Denpasar is largely synonymous with the arts and culture of Bali generally, although here has been the interaction of the combination with other cultures along with the arrival of the tourists from various circles. However, the traditional values inspired by the Hindu rituals still strongly colored the city.

The role of Indigenous Bali is still rooted in the people of Denpasar, Indigenous Bali which includes, values, norms and behavior in society generally on patrilineal family system. But over time some of the prevailing customary laws began to be opposed by the people, especially in matters of gender and inheritance.

Read to : Kecak dance, The traditional dance from Bali Indonesia

Tourism

The development of tourism and the attractiveness of the island of Bali, indirectly has encouraged the progress of development in the city of Denpasar. In 2000, the number of foreign tourists coming to visit reached 1.413.513 people, and put the largest number of tourists from Japan and followed by Australia, Taiwan, Europe, Britain, America, Singapore and Malaysia.

The policy of tourism development in Denpasar City focuses on the pariwasata of environmentally sound culture. As one of the centers of tourism development, Denpasar City becomes a barometer for the progress of tourism in Bali, this can be seen with the emergence of various star hotels as a means of supporting tourism activities.

Sanur Beach is one of the tourist areas of the crowded beaches visited. While Puputan Field is a green open space in the city of Denpasar as well as functioning as the lungs of the city.

Tourist destination

Denpasar has several tourist attractions that have elements of history and recreation include:

Museum of Bali - this place was originally the place of the royal family

Renon Square - the center of family activity and there is also the Bajra Sandhi Monument is a monument to the struggle of the people of Bali

Puputan Park - a performing arts venue

Pasar Kreneng

Simpang Dewa Ruci or Simpang Siur - there is Mal Simpang Siur or Discovery Mall

Puri Santrian

Sanur Beach

Ecotourism of mangrove forest or mangroves

cultural Park

Kertalangu Cultural Village

The Bird Market of Satria

Sindu Beach

Pura Agung Jagatnatha

Sakenan Temple

Culinary tour

Denpasar is also famous for its culinary tour. Some places that are well known to both local and foreign tourists are:

Nasi Ayam Kedewatan - Jalan Tukad Badung, Denpasar

Nasi Ikan Mak Beng - near the Radisson Hotel

Nasi Campur - Beach Segara, Sanur

Babi Guling Chandra - Teuku Umar Street (non-halal)

Warung Wardana - Jalan Merdeka, Denpasar

Duck Fried HT - Jalan Merdeka, Denpasar

Sate Plecing - Jalan Yudhistira, Denpasar (non-halal)

Super Crab Depot - Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai

Bali Nikmat Resto - Jalan Raya Kuta deket Alfa

Warung Batan Waru - next to Discovery Mall

Warung Made - Kuta

Ikan Bakar - Jimbaran

Nyoman Cafe - Jimbaran

Menega Cafe - Four Seasons Jimbaran

Jebak (Jejak Bali Culinary) - Jalan Teuku Umar, Denpasar

Some of Bali's famous souvenirs include dodol bali, brem, nut rahayu, milk pie, disco bean, bali salak, peas, chicken chirping cracker, pia legong and bali coffee. Some special places that sell souvenirs are:

Shop Krisna

Shop Erlangga

Kumbasari Market

Consulate General

United States of America

Australia

Netherlands

Brazil

great Britain

Czech

Chile

Denmark

Finland

Hungary

Italy

Japan

German

Malaysia

Mexico

Norway

France

People's Republic of China

Slovakia

Spanish

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Timor Leste

Keris, The Traditional Weapon from Java Indonesia

Keris is a dagger-type stabbing weapon (pointed sharp and sharp on both sides) with many cultural functions that are known in the western and central part of the archipelago. The shape is distinctive and is easily distinguished from other sharp weapons because it is not symmetrical at the base of the widened, often blade winding, and many of them have pamor (damascene), which is visible fibers of a bright metal layer on the blade strands. The type of stabbing weapon that has similarities with the keris is badik. Another stabbing weapon of Nusantara is a kerambit.

In the past keris functioned as a weapon in a duel / war, as well as complementary items offerings. In today's use, kris is more an accessory (ageman) in dress, has a number of cultural symbols, or a collection of objects that are valued in terms of aesthetics.

The use of kris is spread to the people who have been affected by Majapahit, such as Java, Madura, Nusa Tenggara, Sumatra, Kalimantan coast, parts of Sulawesi, Malay Peninsula, Southern Thailand and Southern Philippines (Mindanao). Keris Mindanao is known as kalis. Keris in each region has its own peculiarities in appearance, function, technique garapan, and terminology.

Keris Indonesia has been registered in UNESCO as World Non-Material Human Cultural Heritage since 2005.

Origin and function

The origin of the kris has not been fully explained since there is no descriptive written source about it from the period before the fifteenth century, although the mention of the term "keris" has been imprinted on an inscription from the 9th century AD. Scientific study of the development of keris is mostly based on the analysis of figures in the reliefs of temples or statues. Meanwhile, knowledge of the function of the keris can be traced from several inscriptions and reports of foreign explorers to the archipelago.

Beginning: India-China Influence

Sharp weapons with a form suspected to be a source of inspiration for the making of kris can be found in the legacy of the perundagian of Dongson Culture and southern China. The alleged influence of Ancient Chinese culture in the use of stabbing weapons, as the embryo of the kris, is possible to enter through Dongson culture (Vietnam) which is a "bridge" the influx of Chinese cultural influences into the archipelago. A number of present-day krises for offerings have human-shaped handles (not distilir like modern kris), same as daggers Dongson, and blend with blades.

The respect for various metal objects can be traced to the influence of India, especially Siwaism. Dakawu inscription (6th century) shows Indian iconography featuring "wesi aji" such as trident, kudhi, sickle, and sombro kris. Historians generally agree, the kris of the pre-Singasari period is known as the "Buda kris", which is short and not hollow (straight), and is considered the prototype of a dagger. Some daggers findings from Dongson culture have similarities with Buda kris and kris santen. Kris kent has a part of the handle of metal that blends with kris blade. In the Java language, "buda" means ancient.

Prototype of kris from pre-Majapahit period

The carvings of megalithic statues and temple reliefs from the megalithic period until the 10th-11th centenary of the Christian calendar mostly feature other forms of stab guns and "wesi aji" weapons of Dongson and India. The form of a stabbing weapon that is presumed to be a prototype of the kris has no blade on the marijuana so that the blades seem symmetrical, otherwise it generally shows the upstream / deder / carving which is a unity with the blade (deder iras). The most closely resembling a kris is a megalithic heritage from the Basemah Lahat valley of South Sumatra from the 10th-5th century BC that describes a knight riding an elephant with a rifle (dagger) weapon of a kind with a kris just a slashed tendon against marijuana but there is a tendency (degree of slope) against upstream. In addition, a panel relief of Borobudur Temple (9th century) that shows a person holding a similar object of a keris but not yet having a degree of inclination and its upstream / deder still blend with the blade.

From the same century, the Karangtengah inscription dates to 824 AD mentions the term "keris" in a list of equipment. Poh Inscription (904 AD) mentions "kris" as part of offerings that need to be offered. However, it is not known whether the "kris" refers to objects as they are known today.

In the Javanese knowledge of Pader (Padhuwungan), the kris of pre-Kadiri-Singasari is known as "Buda kris" or "kris sombro". These kris are not berpamor and simple. Keris Buda is considered a form of modern keris bodyguards. The example of the Keris kris that is often quoted is the Knaud family's kris from Batavia obtained by Charles Knaud, a Dutch devotee of Javanese mysticism, from Sri Paku Alam V. This keris has a relic of the Ramayana epic on the surface of the blade and includes the year number Saka 1264 (1342 AD) , contemporaneous to the Temple of Upgrading, though one doubts its calendar.

Keris Buda has a form resemblance to various daggers that are seen in temples in Java before the 11th century. The daggers on these temples still show the characteristics of Indian weapons, have not experienced "indigenization" (indigenization). The existence of various depictions of various "wesi aji" as a component of icons of Hindu gods has brought an appreciation to various weapons, including kris. Nevertheless, there is no authentic evidence of the evolutionary change of the Indian style dagger to this keris.

The study of building iconography and carving style during Kadiri-Singasari (13th to 14th centuries) shows the tendency of indigenization from pure India to Javanese style, not to mention the form of kris. One of the Shiva statues from the Singasari period (early 14th century) holds a wji-like "wesi aji", different from the previous depictions. One of the lower reliefs (bas-relief) on the wall of Penataran Temple also shows the use of keris-like rats. Penataran Temple (11th to 13th centuries AD) from the end of Kadiri Kingdom in Blitar, East Java.

Modern kris

The modern keris known today is believed by the keris observers to have their form during the Majapahit period (14th century) but in fact the reliefs in the Bahal Temple relics of the Panai / Pane Kingdom (11th century AD), as part of the Sriwijaya kingdom, in Portibi North Sumatra , shows that in the 10th-11 century modern kris as it is now known to find its form, in addition to the carbon test on kris findings derived from East Java Malang are found intact along with upstream / dedernya made of bone so that the dedernya can be done carbon analysis, shows the result that the dag is from the 10th century.

Based on the earliest modern keris reliefs on the Bahal temple of North Sumatra and the discovery of the Buddhist kris from East Java which both show the age of the 10th century it can be estimated that around the 10th century AD began to create a keris in its modern asymmetrical form.

From the 15th century, one of the reliefs in Sukuh Temple, which is the place of worship from the end of Majapahit, clearly shows a master is making a dagger. This relief on the left illustrates Bhima as the master personification of the middle forged iron, Ganesha in the middle, and Arjuna is pumping the air blowing tube for the furnace. The wall behind the master displays a variety of metal objects forged, including kris.

.... These people [Majapahit] always wear pu-la-t'ou (daggers? Or beladau?) Tucked into a belt. [...], made of steel, with elaborate and delicate patterns on its leaves; Its top is made of gold, horn, or ivory carved in the shape of a human or a gigantic face with a very smooth and diligent cultivation.

- Ma Huan, "Ying-yai Sheng-lan Fai"

Notes Ma Huan from 1416, member Cheng Ho's expedition, in "Ying-yai Sheng-lan" mentions that the Majapahit people always wear (pu-la-t'ou) tucked into a belt. Regarding the word Pu-la-t'ou, although only based on sound resemblance, many argue that it is a "dagger", and since the kris is a stabbing weapon as a dagger it is considered pu-la-t'ou describes a dagger. It seems that research should be done whether it is true that in the majapahit period the dagger is called "dagger" but there is a description that describes that this "dagger" is a dagger and the technique of making prestige has grown well.

It could be what Ma Huan means by Pulat'ou is "Beladau". The word "beladau" is more like "Pu-La-T'ou" than "dagger". If indeed Ma Huan is referring to Ma Huan's description of weapons that are widely used in Majapahit is not a keris but a traditional weapon of type Badik which is now widely used in Sumatra which is curved like Jambiya, although this weapon has a tendency but has no marijuana and grass so it can not be classified as a kris. The assumption that the meaning of Pu-La-T'ou is Beladau still requires research whether it is in the majapahit period many people use beladau / a kind of badik as a weapon.

... The weapons of the king are: swords, abets (whips), pamuk, machetes, peso teundeut, keris. Giant goddess, because it used to kill ...

- Sanghyang siksakanda karesian, Pupuh XVII

The keris is mentioned in the Sundanese script from 1440 Saka (1518 AD), Sanghyang siksakanda of the XVII puppet stanza, which mentions that the keris is the king's weapon, (king, the ksatriya). This text divides weapons in Sundanese society into three groups; weapons for kings (kings, powers, or clans) are swords, whips, pots, jackets, bunches, and kris; weapons for peasants are kujang, baliung, patik, kored, and tapping knives; while the pastor's weapon was the katri, peso raut, peso dongdang, pangot, and pakisi.

... every man in Java, no matter rich or poor, must have a dagger in his house ... and no one man between the ages of 12 and 80 travels without a dagger in his belt. The keris is placed on the back, like a dagger in Portugal ...

- Tome Pires, "Oriental Suma"

Tome Pires, a Portuguese explorer from the 16th century, talked about the habits of using keris by Javanese men. The description is not much different from what Ma Huan mentioned a century ago.

Portuguese and French news from the 17th century have shown the widespread use of pamor and the use of keris grip from wood, horn, or ivory in various places in the archipelago

Development of keris function

At present, the keris has a diverse function and this is demonstrated by the diverse forms of keris available.

The keris as an element of offering as stated by the inscriptions from the first millennium showed the keris as part of the offering. Today, the keris is still part of the offerings. Furthermore, keris is also used in ritual / mystical or paranormal rituals. The keris for this kind of use has a different shape, with the pesi being the head of the keris, so the head blends with the dagger blade. This kind of keris is known as a kris or "majapahit keris" (not the same as Majapahit's strong keris).

Foreign exhibits show the function of the keris as a weapon among Majapahit public. The kris as a weapon has a sturdy, hard, but light blades. Various legends of the period of Demak-Mataram are known for some famous weapon keris, such as keris Nagasasra Sabukinten.

The French report from the 16th century has described the role of keris as a symbol of the greatness of the leaders of Sumatra (especially the Sultanate of Aceh). Godinho de Heredia from Portugal wrote in his journal from 1613 that the Malay inhabitants of the Peninsular ("The End of the Land") had given poison on the keris blades and adorned the sheath and headdress of kris with gems.

The "refinement" of the function of the keris seems to have strengthened since the 19th century onwards, in line with the easing of political turmoil in the archipelago and the strengthening of firearms. In this development, the role of keris as a weapon gradually decreases. For example, in Javanese idealism about a "perfect" man, it is often said that the keris or suspicion is a symbol of the holding of knowledge / skills as a living. The development of the use of keris and the variation of the form of keris (warangka) known now can also be said is a form of refinement of keris function.

Nowadays, Javanese grasslands always see the keris as a tosan aji or "sublime (metal)", not as a weapon. The keris is mushroom, together with a spear; both are regarded as "holding" objects (ageman) which are taken advantage of by taking the form of stinging weapons in the past. In Malaysia, in a strong monarchy culture, the keris becomes a void identity.

The rules for using keris vary by region. In Java and Sunda, for example, the keris was placed on the back of the back in peace but was placed in front of the war. Kris placement in front can be defined as a willingness to fight. In addition, related to the function, the Javanese sarongs also have the main variations: as well as ladrang. Meanwhile, in Sumatra, Kalimantan, Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines, the keris are placed in front of the ceremonies of greatness.

A sharp weapon with a form that is supposed to be a source of inspiration for making kris can be found on the relics of the Dongson Culture and southern China. Alleged influence on Chinese culture in the use of sting weapon, as a heir to the keris, is possible through the culture of Dongson (Vietnam) which is a "bridge" of the influence of Chinese culture into the archipelago. A number of present-day keris for the sake of sacrifice has a human-shaped handle (not distilled like a modern keris), similar to the Dongson dagger, and blends with its blade.

The respect for various metal objects can be traced to the influence of India, especially Siwaism. Dakuwu inscription (6th century) shows an Indian iconography featuring "wesi aji" such as trident, kudhi, sickle, and sombro kris. Historians generally agree, the kris of the pre-Singasari period is known as the "Buda kris", which is short and not hollow (straight), and is considered the prototype of a dagger. Some daggers findings from Dongson culture have similarities with Buda kris and kris santen. Kris kent has a part of the handle of metal that blends with kris blade.

Materials, manufacture, and maintenance

The basic metal used in the manufacture of kris there are two kinds of metal are ferrous and metal pamor, while pesi kris is made of steel. To make it light the Empu always combine this base material with other metals. Today's kris (nèm-nèman, made since the 20th century) usually wears nickel metal. The good old kris (kris kuna) has metallized pamor metals known to have high titanium content, in addition to nickel, cobalt, silver, lead, chromium, antimony, and copper. The famous meteorite rock is the Prambanan meteorite, which once fell into the 19th century in the Prambanan temple complex.

The making of a keris varies from one master to another, but there are usually similar procedures. Here is a brief process according to one of the libraries. The iron bar as base material is washed or heated to incandescent and then repeatedly forged to remove impurities (eg carbon and various oxides). Once clean, the blades are folded like U-shaped letters to insert the pamor plate inside. Then this fold is re-heated and forged. After pasting and lengthening, this mixture is folded and re-forged over and over again. The way, strength, and forging position, and the number of folds will affect the prestige that comes later. This process is called saton. The final shape is a longitudinal slab. This plate is then cut into two parts, called kodhokan. One piece of steel is then placed between the two kodhokan such as a sandwich sandwich, tied and then dipijarkan and forged to unify. The end of the kodhokan is then made somewhat lengthwise to be cut and used as marijuana. The next stage is to form the pesi, bengkek (candidate gandhik), and lastly form the blade whether or not straight. The making of the luk is done by heating.

The next stage is the manufacture of ornaments (ricikan) by working on certain parts using the miser, grinding, and drill, in accordance with dhapur kris to be made. Silak waja is done by thinking the blade to see the prestige that formed. Cannabis is made following the base of the blades. Hole size adjusted to the diameter of pesi.

The last stage, which is gilding, is done to make the metal kris become iron metal steel. On the Philippines kris is not done this process. Gilding ("taking metal") is done by inserting the blades into a sulfur mixture, salt, and lime juice (called kamalan). Gilding can also be done by spreading a dagger and then immersed in a liquid (water, brine, or coconut oil, depending on the experience the professor makes). Actions of gilding should be done with care because if one can make a keris blade cracked.

In addition to the usual way of Gilding as above in the plating Keris also known as licking jelat is when the burning metal Keris taken and licked with tongue, Akuh Akep is at the time of metallic keris burned taken and dikulum with lips several times and Sepuh Saru is at the time of the burning metal Keris taken and clipped with the female genitals (Vagina) Sepuh Saru is famous is Nyi Sombro, kerisnya form is not big but adjustable. [need a reference]

The giving of warangan and perfume oil is done as keris treatment in general. The treatment of kris in Javanese tradition is done every year, usually in Muharram / Sura month, although this is not a requirement. The term keris treatment is "bathing" the kris, although the actual act is to remove the old perfume oil and rust on the kris blades, usually with acidic liquids (traditionally using coconut water, crushed noni fruit, or lime juice). Blades that have been cleaned and then given a warangan when necessary to reinforce prestige, cleaned again, and then given a perfume oil to protect the blade of keris from new rust. This perfume oil traditionally uses jasmine oil or sandalwood oil that is diluted in coconut oil.

Morphology

Keris or dhuwung consists of three main parts, namely blades (wilah or kris leaf), marijuana ("sustainer"), and upstream kris (carving, handles of kris). The part that should be there is the slats. Hulu kris can be separated or blend with blades. Cannabis is not always there, but the good kris always has it. Keris as a weapon and ceremonial tool is protected by kerung keris or warangka.

Kris blade is the main part that becomes the identification of a kris. Knowledge of the shape (dhapur) or morphology of the kris becomes important for the purposes of identification. The form of kris has many spiritual symbols besides aesthetic value. Common things to consider in the morphology of the keris is bend (luk), ornament (ricikan), color or blade of the blade, and the pattern of pamor. The combination of these components produces a number of standard forms (dhapur) of keris that are widely described in the libraries of the kris.

The influence of time influences the making style. The style of kris making is reflected from the tough concept, which is usually associated with historical and geographical periodization, and the master who makes it.

Hulu or keris grip

The handles of the kris (Javanese: gaman, or upstream kris) are various motifs, for the Balinese kris there is a form like a god, pedande (priest), giant, dancer, forest hermit and some are carved with kinatah gold and precious stones and usually inlaid with ruby rubies.

Sulawesi kris handle describes seabirds. It is a symbol of some professions of Sulawesi society who are seafarers, while birds are the symbol of the world of salvation. As well as the bird head motif used in Riau Lingga kris, and for other areas as a tosan aji development center such as Aceh, Bangkinang (Riau), Palembang, Sambas, Kutai, Bugis, Luwu, Java, Madura and Sulu, kris has carvings and different symbols. In addition, the material used was derived from various materials such as ivory, bone, metal, and the most are wood.

To handle the kris of Java, the outline consists of wingking sir (head of back), jiling, cigir, cetek, bathuk (head of front), weteng and bungkul.

Warangka or kris sheath

Warangka, or kerung keris (Banjar language: kumpang), is a kris component that has certain functions, especially in the social life of Javanese society, at least because this part is seen directly. Warangka originally made of wood (the common ones are teak, sandalwood, timoho, and yellow). In line with the development of the epoch occurred the addition of wrangka function as a reflection of social status for its users. The top or ladrang-gayaman often replaced with ivory.

Broadly speaking there are two forms of warangka, the type of warangka ladrang consisting of parts: a cup, lata, beard, gandek, godong (shaped like a leaf), axle, ri and cangkring. And the other type is the type of wrangka gayaman (gandon) whose parts are almost the same as the wrangka ladrang but there is no junk, godong, and gandek.

Usage rules wrangka this form has been determined, although not absolute. Wrangka ladrang is used for official ceremonies, eg facing the king, other official palace ceremonies (coronation, appointment of royal officers, marriage, etc.) with the intention of reverence. The method of using it is to slip a keris axle in the folds of the belt (stagen) on the back waist (included as a consideration for the king's safety). While wrangka gayaman used for daily purposes, and the keris placed on the front (near the waist) or behind (back waist).

In war, which is used is kris wrangka gayaman, the consideration is from the practical and concise, because wrangka gayaman more allows fast and easy to move, because the shape is more simple.

Ladrang and gayaman are wrangka forms, and the main part according to the wrangka function is the long-shaped bottom (along wilah kris) called axle or antupan, the axle function is to encase the wilah (blades) and usually made of wood (considered for not damage wilah made from metal mixture).

Because the axle function to wrap, so its beauty function is not preferred, then to beautify it will be coated like cylinders called pendok. This part of the pendok (layer of sleeve) is usually carved very beautiful, made of brass metal, suasa (gold copper mixture), silver, gold. For areas outside Java (among Bugis kings, Goa, Palembang, Riau, Bali) pendoknya made of gold, accompanied by additional ornaments such as embroidered straps of gold and diamond-studded flower diamonds.

For the Javanese kris, according to the shape of the pendok there are three kinds, namely (1) bunton pendok shaped flat sleeveless without halves on its side, (2) pendok blewah (blengah) split lengthwise to one end so that the axle will be seen, and (3) dented mask whose hemisphere is located only in the middle. When viewed from the decoration, there are two types of pendok that is carved and plain pendok (without carving).

Wilah or kris blades

Wilah, wilahan, or blade is the main part of a kris. Wilah kris is a metal that is forged in such a way that it becomes a sharp weapon. Wilah consists of unequal parts for each wilahan, which is usually called the kitchen, or the naming of various shapes on wilah-blades (there are dozens of forms of kitchen). For example, can mention the kitchen tall mayang, jaka lola, pinarak, jamang murub, bungkul, kebo tedan, pegalak sitegal, dll.

At the base of the womb is a pesi, which is the lower end of a keris or keris. This is the part that goes into the handle of the keris (carving). This pesi is between 5 cm to 7 cm long, with a cross section of 5 mm to 10 mm, its shape is round like a pencil. In East Java area called paksi, in Riau called nipple, while for Serawak, Brunei and Malaysia called punting.

At the base (bottom of kris) or the lower part of a kris called cannabis (for the Malay peninsula region call it aring). In the center there is a hole pesi (round) exactly to enter the pesi, so part wilah and marijuana inseparable. Cultural observers tosan aji say that the unity represents the unity of phallus and yoni, where marijuana represents the yoni symbol while pesi represents its lingganya. Cannabis is cursory lizard-shaped, the front called sirah lizard, the neck is called gulu meled, the abdomen called wetengan and tail called sebit ron. Various forms of cannabis there are various, wilut, dungkul, kelban leech and sebit rontal.

Luk, is a curved part of the kris-blades, and seen from the shape of the dagger can be divided into two major groups, namely a straight dagger and keris whose blades winding or luk. One simple way of counting the blade on the blade, starting from the base of the kris towards the tip of the kris, calculated from the convex side and done on both sides across-across (right-left), then the last number is the number of luks on the sides and the amount is always gasal (odd) and never even, and the smallest is three (3) and most of them are thirteen (13). If there is a dagger whose number of luk is more than thirteen, usually called kris kalawija, or keris is not uncommon.

Pasikutan, tough keris, and developments in the present

What is meant by pasikutan is "romance" or emotional impression generated by the form of a dagger. Usually, the personification is pinned on a dagger, for example a kris looks like "humpback," "uninspired", "cheerful", "unbalanced", and so on. The ability to identify the followings is an advanced stage in deepening science and bringing someone to the edge of the kris.

The style / style of making a keris is influenced by the age, residence and taste of the master who made it. In Javanese terms of extraction, keris style according to time and place is termed as tough. Tangguh can also be interpreted as "approximate", meaning that the estimation of a kris follows the style of a certain time or place. The "suspension" of keris is generally done on kris sheaths, although new kris can also be made to follow a certain respite, depending on the wishes of the keris owner or owner.

Tough kris is not absolute because the description of any respite can be overlapping. In addition, the old libraries have no agreement on the masters who are put into a respite. This is due to the oral tradition that before the 20th century was used in the science of life.

Though tough is not synonymous with age, the toughest keris (Javanese) that can be found today is tough Buda (or Buda kris). The oldest modern heirloom kris is considered to come from the tough Pajajaran, ie from the period when most of Central Java was still under the influence of Galuh Kingdom. The youngest heirloom kris is from the reign of Pakubuwana X (ending 1939). Furthermore, the quality of kris making continues to decline, even in Surakarta in the decade of the 1940s none of the clever kris survived.

The revival of keris kris art in Surakarta began in 1970, handed by K.R.T. Hardjonagoro (Go Tik Swan) and supported by Sudiono Humardani, through the Association of Taste Bring Aji. Slowly clever keris activity rose again and finally keperisan science also became a study program at the College of Arts Indonesia Surakarta (now ISI Surakarta).