After visiting the giant woodcarved Al Quran Al Akbar, we went to Kampung Kapitan 7 Ulu, Palembang to learn the history of Chinese migration to Sriwijaya, the old Palembang. As our coaster stopped by the Musi River, just across the Benteng Kuto Besak Plaza, we walked through a narrow alley (which turned out pretty instagrammable) to Kampung Kapitan area.
At the centre of the area, there stood a 400 years old Chinese traditional house. Actually it is a limas house with an oriental touch. The Kampung Kapitan was where the first Chinese immigrants settled down. A closer look to the traditional house, one would recognize the cross culture between the Chinese architecture and the local Palembang culture.
Kampung Kapitan 7 Ulu, Palembang
It was believed that Palembang was influenced by China as early as the Ming dynasty in the 14th century. However, it was only in 1825 when the sultanate of Palembang collapsed that the Dutch colonial formed the Chinese settlement which was headed by a Mayor, Captain and Lieutenant. The first Chinese community leader during the Dutch colonial was Tjoa Kie Tjuan who received the title of Mayor. He led the Chinese settlement from 1830 – 1855 in the Kampung Kapitan 7 Ulu. He was then substituted by his son, Tjoa Ham Him, who was appointed as the Captain. The subsequent mayor was called commandant, which was later known as Captain.
With vermillion red door and windows wide open, it was as if I was about to time travel to the early 20th century. Everything was so classic and dusty. Even the pictures yellowed by the days gone by.
In the main hall, there were a lot of picture frames hung which chronicled the community history since the beginning of the time. The furniture and decorations were originals paraphernalia of the descendants of the First Captain. There were also Chinese calligraphy painting and old paintings.
Behind the main hall, there was a prayer hall with wooden altar lit by candles. In this area, you can find the portrait of the first captain, Tjoa Kie Tjuan.
Kampung Kapitan 7 Ulu’s Street Shooting
Further up the riverside, we walked to the Chandra Nadi Chinese Temple (Soei Goeat Kiong). Plenty of subjects to do street shooting here. Palembang is so photogenic, to say the least.
The ladies donned in the traditional outfit. The pillion rode the bike side way.
To kill the time, read the newspapers.
The cat that blended well with the rusty aluminium wall.
The colourful tricycle.
The old house
The Musi River with Ampera Bridge view.
Sugarcane juice in the making.
Chandra Nadi Chinese Temple, Palembang
The prayers would normally purchase a bundle of incense, light them and hold them in both hands while praying. They would then place the incense to burn in the incense holders once they have finished praying.
The trip to South Sumatera was made possible by the invitation of Ministry of Tourism Indonesia in conjunction with International Mussi Triboatton from 8 – 12 November 2017. Thank you for the wonderful experience.
2 Comments
look interesting and enjoyable
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