Alongside rattan, South Sumatra is also known for kayu tembesu, a dense local hardwood that has become a favourite material for Palembang’s carved furniture. Community and forestry sources note that tembesu is widely used for Palembang-style woodcarving, especially for display cabinets, carved wall panels, and picture frames.
Local makers and brands highlight tembesu as strong, long lasting, and “wong Plembang punya selero”, emphasising its role in expressing Palembang taste and identity. Workshops and showrooms in the city work almost entirely with solid tembesu for cupboards, doors, and custom furniture pieces.
The signature of tembesu furniture from South Sumatra lies in:
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Rich carving on doors, crown mouldings, and panel edges
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A warm, natural color that pairs well with gold and red – typical of Palembang interiors
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Custom, made-to-order sizing, so cabinets and frames follow the proportions of traditional houses and modern living rooms alike
For anyone looking for solid, heirloom-style furniture with a strong regional character, carved tembesu pieces from Palembang are one of South Sumatra’s most distinctive offerings.
