West Sumatra, Indonesian province in western Sumatra
West Sumatra is an Indonesian province on the western side of Sumatra island between the Indian Ocean and the mountainous interior. The territory ranges from coastal plains through volcanic highlands to the offshore Mentawai Islands separated by shallow seas.
The Pagaruyung Kingdom ruled much of this territory from its highland capital between the 14th century and the late 1700s. Dutch trading posts appeared along the coast during the 1600s before the region came under full colonial administration in 1821.
The Minangkabau people of West Sumatra maintain a matrilineal social structure where property, family names, and land pass down through the maternal line.
Padang on the coast serves as the main hub with an airport and ferry connections to the rest of Sumatra. The rainy season between September and January brings frequent downpours while the drier months offer easier travel inland.
Rendang, a slow-cooked meat dish with coconut milk and spices, originates from this province and is now served worldwide. Minangkabau cooks spread their cuisine by opening restaurants across Indonesia and beyond.
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