South Sumatra's Nine Rivers and the Shadow of Tigers: Coexistence of Nature and Culture

South Sumatra, an integral part of Sumatra Island, boasts extraordinary natural wealth, from its highlands to lowlands, encompassing both biotic and abiotic resources. Rivers, or 'Batanghari,' are a manifestation of this wealth. They are not merely spaces for water, rocks, and sand but also home to thousands of living creatures, ranging from microorganisms, aquatic plants, freshwater fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates, to birds, otters, and crocodiles. South Sumatra is known as the land of 'Batanghari Sembilan' (Nine Rivers) due to the presence of nine major rivers in the region: the Musi River, Komering River, Ogan River, Lematang River, Lakitan River, Batanghari Leko River, Kelingi River, Rupit River, and Rawas River. These nine rivers form wetland ecosystems spanning approximately three million hectares. According to the Environmental Determinism theory developed by Friedrich Ratzel (Germany) and Ellsworth Huntington (USA), the richness of rivers shapes the culture of the communities living around them. Rivers serve not only as sources of clean water, food, and transportation but also foster a society that is open, egalitarian, and reverent. The free flow of water from upstream to downstream, accessible to all living beings without demanding reciprocation, has given rise to this societal structure. This openness has facilitated cultural acculturation, resulting in a rich tapestry of traditions and knowledge in South Sumatra, mirroring its natural abundance. Local knowledge has merged with various Hindu-Buddhist, Islamic, and Western influences, giving birth to diverse traditions and cultures, including architecture, belief systems, and arts. Fish are a vital source of food and economy for the people of South Sumatra. The region is also home to 67 Intangible Cultural Heritage objects (WBTb), underscoring its immense cultural richness. Source: Mongabay Indonesia