Understanding Sunda Wiwitan of Cigugur Kuningan: Between Tradition, Culture, and Adaptation of Communication Technology

Abstract

Sunda Wiwitan in Cigugur Kuningan maintains respect for the traditions and customs that have become an integral part of their culture. Along with the rapid changes in communication technology, this research aims to understand the development of communication technology in the Sunda Wiwitan community and how they preserve their culture in the modern era. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach, which includes interviews and content analysis to collect data from key informants. The results showed that although the Sunda Wiwitan community quickly adopted modern communication technologies such as the internet and social media, they also needed time to develop appropriate usage guidelines. The research revealed that despite accepting new technologies, this community remains committed to maintaining their cultural values and traditions, including the use of traditional clothing to filter out foreign cultural influences. The implications of this research suggest that technology can be integrated into indigenous communities without erasing their cultural identity. In addition, the results highlight the importance of developing policies that support cultural preservation in the midst of technological advances, as well as the need for education for community members to optimize the use of technology while still respecting and preserving their traditions.