Everything Everywhere Daily · Thursday, September 10, 2026
The Srivijaya Empire was founded by a warlord named Da Pu Hiyang, who led a force of over 200 ships and 20,000 men to capture Palembang on the Musi River. This strategic conquest established Palembang as the new state's center, from which Da Pu Hiyang expanded control over other river strongholds and key trade routes, including the Strait of Malacca.
“Srivijaya and conquest over the region's coastal cities began near the end of the seventh century.”
“The founder of the Srivijaya Empire was a warlord named Da Pu Hiyang, who led an army of 20,000 on more than 200 ships into the city of Palembang on the Musi River.”
“Da Pu Hiyang established Palembang as the center of the new Srivijaya state, and from that base began seizing control of other river strongholds.”