Introduction / History
The Lematang (or Lemantang) people’s homeland extends from the city of Lahat in the regency of Lahat until the area of Lematang llir Ogan Tengah in the regency of Muara Enim. Bordered by the areas of the Kikim and Enim peoples, it runs along the full length of the Lematang River near the cities of Muara Enim, Prabumulih, and Gelumbang. It also includes the region of the tributaries of the Rawas River near the cities of Bingintelok and Terusan. The Lematang River, also called Sungai Orang Kaya (Rich Man’s River), is South Sumatera’s largest producer of “river rock,” which is used for foundation material in building. The Lematang area includes the districts of Gunung Magang, Muara Enim, and Merapi. Merapi District has 37 villages, including Muara Lawai, Gedung Agung, Banjarsari, Kota Agung, Tanjung Baru, and Arahan. The Lematang originated from Banten people who immigrated at the time of the ancient Majapahit Kingdom.

Introduction / History

The Lampung Krui (or Kroe) are a small sub-group who are closely related to the Komering, a larger people group in the Lampung cluster. The Lampung Krui and Komering are sometimes considered as one group called the Njo people. Most of the Lampung Krui live in and around the towns of Krui, Sanggi, and Kotajawa on the southwest coast of Sumatera, the world’s fifth largest island.Sumatera is an island rich in natural resources, such as minerals, oil, and forest products. However, most of the land consists of thick forests, swamps, and volcanic mountains with many obstacles for transportation and communication.

What are their lives like?
The land where the Lampung Krui live is flat and swampy. This type of land is very suitable for rice farming. Most of the Lampung Krui earn a living as farmers and small traders. Their crops are mainly sold at local markets or shops. Their lives are difficult and their incomes are low. Many children are forced to drop out of school to help supplement the family income.Lampung Krui houses usually consist of two main rooms. The first room serves as a bedroom while the second, which is larger, is used as a place to receive guests or for family gatherings. The walls and floor are constructed of wood and bamboo. The roof is clay tile or woven palm leaves.The father is the head of the family and may have more than one wife. Nevertheless, seldom does a man have more than one wife due to economic obligations. It is the wife’s responsibility to manage the home and the children. In addition, Lampung Krui women also work in the rice fields.