History of Bangka Belitung (Bumi Serumpun Sebalai)
Slowly but surely, Bangka Belitung continues to preen. Its beauty is not only felt by local residents. Nationally, including the world, also feels its charm. This is clearly a source of pride, as well as an achievement, considering that Bangka Belitung is a newly formed province
in 2000.
The Bangka Belitung Islands Province consists of two large islands, namely Bangka Island and Belitung Island. There are also other small islands. During the kingdom era, this area was under the control of Srivijaya, Majjahapit, and Mataram.
After that, Bangka Belitung became a British colony. On December 10, 1816, the handover to the Dutch government took place in Muntok.
During the Dutch colonial period, there was resistance, carried out by Depati Barin. The resistance was then continued by his son, Depati Amir, until he was exiled to Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. During the colonial period, much of the island’s wealth was confiscated.
Nevertheless, Bangka Belitung was able to survive, including putting up a number of resistance. Only in 2000, Bumi Serumpun Sebalai officially became an autonomous region.
At that time, the Government of the Republic of Indonesia recognized the existence of Bangka Belitung as a province, no longer affiliated with South Sumatra. This determination was confirmed based on Law Number 27 of 2000.’