In the past, the Musi River was the main trade route for the people of Palembang and the surrounding area.
“In addition to large ships, the river is also full of fish, including large fish that are the source of people's livelihoods,” Umar explained.
Over time, the population grew, and the construction of the Ampera Bridge prevented large ships from passing through.
The width of the Musi River also shrank due to natural changes, turning some of its flow into land that is now inhabited by people.
Umar also explained that the term 'laut' was used to distinguish areas within a village or kelurahan.
“For example, Kelurahan 1 Ulu is divided into 1 Ulu land and 1 Ulu sea because some people live near the Musi river,” he explained.
The term 'laut' also applies to several other areas along the coast of the Musi River, especially in Seberang Ulu.
With its long history and changes, the term 'laut' for the Musi River has become part of the identity and culture of the Palembang people.