The legend of Siti Nurbaya is a well-known folk tale in Indonesia, particularly in West Sumatra. This story was popularized through the novel “Siti Nurbaya: Kasih Tak Sampai” by Marah Rusli, published in 1922. The tale revolves around a young woman named Siti Nurbaya who is forced to marry a wealthy man named Datuk Maringgih to pay off her father’s debt. However, Siti Nurbaya’s true love is Samsulbahri, her childhood friend. The story’s central themes include the conflict between love and social obligation.
The Siti Nurbaya Bridge, located in Padang, West Sumatra, is named after the main character of this legend. This bridge connects the city center of Padang with Seberang Padang and has become an important landmark of the city. Naming the bridge after Siti Nurbaya serves not only as a tribute to the literary work that has become a part of local culture and history but also as a reminder of the values embedded in Siti Nurbaya’s story, such as love, sacrifice, and social injustice.
Therefore, the relationship between the legend of Siti Nurbaya and the Siti Nurbaya Bridge is significant, as the bridge is named in honor of this legendary figure and aims to strengthen the local cultural identity. The bridge is also a popular tourist spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful views and experience an atmosphere rich with historical and literary significance.
