Local Traditions Research Articles

Molimbu as Civil Sphere in Developing a Harmonious Congregation: A Case Study from Poso, Central Celebes, Indonesia

Abstract This article provides a socio-theological study of Molimbu, a local tradition of collective feasting found among the Pamona people in the province of Central Sulawesi in Indonesia. It specifically explores the impact of Molimbu on the Zaitun Dulumai congregation, which is part of the Gereja Kristen Sulawesi Tengah (Central Sulawesi Christian Church, GKST), located in Poso, a city in Central Sulawesi (also known as Celebes), Indonesia. This article explores the manner in which Molimbu contributes to the civil sphere by building harmony within the church. Congregations in this part of Indonesia have been deeply impacted by external Christian values, leadership, and forces that are associated with European missions. But this is not the full story. In the Dulumai congregation, the church is also regulated by the agency of the local tradition called Molimbu. As an ethnic tradition and part of the congregation’s community life, Molimbu becomes a solidarity space connecting every participating individual. The research objective of this article is to describe and analyze Molimbu as a cultural practice that contributes to the civil sphere by building a harmonious congregation at GKST Zaitun Dulumai. The research method used is qualitative and descriptive. The results show that Molimbu contributes significantly to the civil sphere in constructing harmonious Christian congregations by activating sublime values such as equality and respect. Those values foster and nurture harmony within the congregation and are indicated through the traditional Christian concepts of koinonia (fellowship), diakonia (ministry), and maturia (witness).

Integrasi Keimanan dan Tradisi: Analisis Peran Gereja Toraja dan Tallu Lolona dalam Harmonisasi Budaya dan Agama

This research explores the role of the Toraja Church and Tallu Lolona in integrating local traditions into religious practices. Through interviews, observations, and document analysis, we found that the Toraja Church has successfully created a harmonious model between Christian faith and Toraja cultural heritage. Tallu Lolona, as a spiritual leader, plays a central role in maintaining this balance. These findings provide deep insights into the unique dynamics between tradition and faith in the Toraja Church, with a positive impact on the spiritual and cultural life of the community.

The Integration of Bugis Cultural Values and Islamic Teachings in Digital Media

This study aims to explore how Ustaz Das'ad Latif utilises YouTube to integrate Bugis cultural values with Islamic teachings, focusing on marriage. The research employs a multimodal discourse analysis framework to examine the ideational, interpersonal, and textual functions in Ustaz Das'ad Latif's YouTube lectures. The study reveals that Siri’ culture, central to Bugis identity, is intertwined with Islamic values, particularly regarding gender roles, honour, and family dynamics. Digital media serves as an effective tool for both preserving and reshaping these cultural values. The findings suggest that digital platforms like YouTube can serve as vital spaces for the global dissemination and transformation of local traditions, offering new interpretations that resonate across cultural boundaries. This research provides novel insights into the role of digital media in preserving local religious traditions while adapting them for broader audiences, contributing to the growing literature on religion, culture, and technology.

Health system barriers to hypertension care in Peru: Rapid assessment to inform organizational-level change.

Traditional patient- and provider-level hypertension interventions have proven insufficient to halt hypertension as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Systems-level interventions are required to address factors challenging hypertension control across a social ecological framework, an under-studied topic particularly salient in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Peru. To inform such interventions, we sought to identify key health systems barriers to hypertension care in Puno, Peru. A participatory stakeholder workshop (October 2021) and 21 in-depth interviews (October 2021-March 2022) were conducted with 55 healthcare professionals (i.e., doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, nutritionists), followed by a deductive qualitative analysis of transcripts and notes. Participating healthcare providers indicated that low prioritization and lack of national policies for hypertension care have resulted in limited funding and lack of societal-level prevention efforts. Additionally, limited cultural consideration, both in national guidelines as well as by some providers in Puno, results in inadequate care that may not align with local traditions. Providers highlighted that patient care is also hampered by inadequate distribution and occasional shortages of medications and equipment, as well as a lack of personnel and limited opportunities for training in hypertension. Multiple incompatible health information systems, complicated referral systems, and geographic barriers additionally hinder continuity of care and care seeking. Insights gained from health providers on the healthcare system in Puno provide essential contextual information to inform development of organizational-level strategies necessary to improve provider and patient behaviors to achieve better hypertension care outcomes.

The glocalization of death in the digital age: traits and limits

This perspective article explores the interplay between death and glocalization in digitally saturated societies. The central question driving our perspective is how societal responses to death reflect and inform the process of glocalization within the context of increasing digital connectivity. In this study, we discuss that societal response to death provides a unique perspective on how global digital trends intersect with deep-seated beliefs and traditions in glocalization dynamics. Thus, the main section of the article (Section 3) examines the traits and limitations of digital glocalization in mortality contexts, revealing its multifaceted nature: digital glocalization is relational, post-metaphysical, naturally occurring, and a boundary solution to crises. Constraints in glocal forging in the context of bereavement include interpersonal challenges, social alienation, evolving local customs, religious considerations, and timing issues. Our perspective, informed by brief ethnographic insights from contemporary Romania, highlights the fusion of ancient customs, digital tools, and religious beliefs in shaping distinctive responses to death in digitally enriched environments. Ultimately, this study concludes that death serves as a catalyst for glocalization, harmonizing local traditions and digital advancements in navigating the complexities of life and loss in the digital age, portraying death as the great “glocalizer.”

Maskot Desa Wisata yang Menyatukan Warisan Budaya Bandung - Karya Inovatif KUKERTA UIN SMH Banten Kelompok 29

Bandung Village, which is rich in local traditions and culture, has launched the Dewi Sinyonya mascot as part of its tourism promotion strategy. This mascot, which is the work of KUKERTA UIN SMH Banten group 29 students, aims to connect the village's cultural heritage with the modern era. The name "Dewi Sinyonya" reflects the village's ambition to be known as a leading tourist destination, where "DEWI" means "Tourist Village" and "SINYONYA" refers to the legendary goldfish species that symbolizes good luck. This mascot wears a kiwari iket and pangsi shirt, and carries a bag woven with pandan leaves as a symbol of local craftsmanship. With its deep design and symbolism, Dewi Sinyonya not only functions as a visual icon, but also as a cultural representation that brings the heritage of Bandung Village to life. It is hoped that its presence will attract tourists to explore the beauty and richness of village culture, as well as strengthen local cultural identity in the modern era.

The Sasak Pepaosan Tradition as a Medium of Communication with God

One local tradition of the Sasak people that has been maintained is conerned with pepaosan. This study explores the meaning of symbols and cultural values in the pepaosan tradition amongst the Sasak in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, in eastern Indonesia. It employed ethnography with a phenomenological approach. All data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. These data were further analyzed qualitatively in four steps: domain analysis, taxonomic analysis, component analysis, and determining themes. This study argues that pepaosan tradition and other instruments serve as a communication medium and a symbol of cultural values, expressing gratitude for all the gifts God has bestowed. It also denotes a request to God to grant the wishes of the Sasak people. The symbols also embody the value of hope and advice for the Sasak people to live a good life, aligning with ancestral teachings and religious guidance.

Development of a traditional-based homestay typology in Bayan Village, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara

Bayan Village on Lombok Island is a tourist village that preserves the traditions of the Sasak-Bayan tribe. The potential of this village lies in the agricultural sector and local products. However, earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic have hindered the village's development. Therefore, rural area planning is needed for sustainable development. One aspect being developed is homestays, although their current use is limited to special interest tourism (research). This study aims to explore the constraints and potential of homestays in the development of Desa Bayan. The research findings show various homestay types with different designs, but they still preserve local traditions. This study also suggests the importance of considering local wisdom and cultural preservation in the development of this village. Thus, this research contributes to developing a tourist village in Desa Bayan, North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.

Israel’s landscapes of Brutalism

ABSTRACT This paper examines the adoption of brutalism in the work of Israeli landscape architects. Since the 1960s, Brutalism made its way from Europe to Israel by leading architects at the time. In parallel, landscape architects also considered Brutalism appropriate to the young state, and the use of concrete as a cheap and readily available construction material. They demonstrated creativity by constructing plazas, outdoor housing complexes, playgrounds and parks, essentially laying a cement carpet across the landscape. The absence of a well-established local outdoor material tradition, coupled with climatic and maintenance considerations, encouraged the burgeoning prominence of outdoor Brutalism in Israel.

The Case for Arts in Reconciliation and Peacebuilding in Africa

In the aftermath of a violent conflict, especially where there have been mass atrocities, violations of the rule of law and human rights abuses, the achievement of reconciliation and peacebuilding remains an immensely difficult challenge. Recently, arts-based approaches to reconciliation and peacebuilding have been supported as an emerging area of research and practice. It is increasingly being seen as a central facet of peace-building and transitional justice. Despite this, arts-based approaches to peacebuilding as an area of study and practice remain under-researched. There remains a gap in understanding the impact community-devised arts projects can have on peace formation amongst diverse actors. This paper fills this gap by analysing the academic evidence to determine how arts can positively promote peacebuilding, healing, reconciliation, and social transformation in Africa. The paper highlights the role that arts and cultural programmes play as part of a spectrum of interventions linking culture, security, and development to sustainable peace. The findings show how arts can be utilised as a powerful means of communication. It suggests programmes that could serve as measures when locally led with an understanding founded in local cultural traditions. The research draws caution against the ability of arts to transform conflict-ridden areas where there is propaganda and underlying agendas. This paper identifies possible future agendas of research and practice that could create evidence based on the role that arts play in peacebuilding and policies to ensure sustainable peace and reconciliation.

Insurgent climate adaptation in Santiago de Cali: Resisting and reshaping flood-risk resettlements

Climate adaptation in Latin American cities involves navigating highly contested social and cultural terrains. In cities with black and indigenous communities they are confronted with challenges such as histories of racial exclusion and informal, self-built housing in high-risk areas. This study examines Project Plan Jarillón, a flood protection infrastructure project in Santiago de Cali which involves Latin America’s largest relocation project. Cali, home to a large Afro-Colombian population, is also one of Colombia’s fastest growing cities and the second largest reciever of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country. The study, based on 5 years of fieldwork including site visits and interviews, found the city’s failure to account for the segregation of black residents in high-risk areas has led to resistance, conflict and delays in the completion of the project. However, by forming an insurgent planning practice which draws from local culture and traditions of resistance, Afro-Colombian communities re-centered public debate on demands for racial and cultural recognition, and the right to decent housing. This insurgent planning is creating more democratic forms and approaches to climate adaptation in Cali at a pivotal moment in Colombia’s history as it negotiates a post-conflict process and positions itself as a global advocate for climate justice.

Conceptualizing the Influence of Souvenir Image and Place Identity on Souvenir Repurchasing Intentions

The local traditions, including arts and crafts, are considered as the important things by which the tourism industry can be attracted by a particular country. The souvenirs are the best tool to tell friends or family about your concern towards them during traveling. Chinese ceramics are considered classic souvenirs to purchase while traveling because the ceramic products have been utilized by the residents for many years. Chinese people have a very significant and firm attachment to their native products they call them souvenirs. The purchase of souvenirs is an integral part of a country’s tourism sector. Therefore, this conceptual paper explores the role of souvenir image, and place identity in boosting the re-purchase intentions of Chinese tourism industry employees for souvenir products. The researcher has reviewed the existing literature to propose a framework to investigate the determinants of the re-purchase intentions for souvenir products. Thus, the study contributed to the existing body of literature on the determinants of re purchase intentions. The proposed research framework has made a significant addition to the literature.

Street art and place-making of villages: examples of Italian painted villages

PurposeThis study aims to discuss the contribution of street art projects to the place-making of villages and the effects it generates for local stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual framework is developed based on the main characteristics of the place-making process, street art, creative place-making, as well as place identity, revitalisation and regeneration. This framework defines a set of thematic categories for the qualitative content analysis of online information, e.g. websites, media and blog posts, as well as in-depth interviews with local stakeholders.FindingsThis research presents the contribution of street art in place-making involving citizens, local businesses and international artists in a collective act to preserve local identity and revitalise and regenerate villages.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is focused only on villages. Cities are not considered in the research.Practical implicationsStreet art projects provide villages with several opportunities, such as stimulating place regeneration and revitalisation, giving new shape and decoration to neighbourhoods and streets and attracting visitors and business. Moreover, street art is commonly used to communicate local history, culture, traditions and social and political facts, helping places to vehiculate their identity and their messages to the next generations. Street art is also used as a part of a place branding strategy.Social implicationsThe village gets the opportunity to exploit the street art value proposition to stimulate the restocking of the place, if the primary stakeholders of the place are ready to invest in the new place identity giving trust to the street art project.Originality/valueStreet art projects contribute to the place-making of villages. They are used to communicate place identity, fostering cooperation between local stakeholders and economic and social development.

Navigating Cross-Cultural Challenges: A Phenomenological Study on Strategies for International Faculty in Higher Education to Support Local Students

Dealing with local challenges and providing effective support for students as an international faculty member can be both challenging and rewarding. This phenomenological study delved into the intricate dynamics of cross-cultural encounters within higher education settings, focusing on the experiences of international faculty in supporting local students. Using semi-structured focus group meetings, the researchers explored how their lived experiences as full‐time international faculty working in institutions of higher learning in the United States could be applied in providing support for students. This process required intricate navigation to acquire some level of cultural understanding of the local culture and traditions and build relationships with native faculty, staff, and students. The study was based on firsthand experiences of how the authors, international scholars from various parts of the world, navigated through these hurdles to become effective educators. The researchers constructed generalizations, noting that the institutions whose policies include embracing cultural diversity, fostering inclusivity, and providing targeted support are better positioned to enable their international faculty members to address local challenges and empower students to succeed effectively.

Engaging Vernacularity and Identity Politics of Public Spaces to Promote Cultural Tourism: Art Festivals in Bandung, Indonesia

Public space has a vital role in defining the politics of identity. Art festivals in public spaces can increase the function of public spaces to negotiate cultural identity, characterized by vernacularity, and simultaneously use various local symbols and tourist attractions. This research discusses how art festivals in public spaces become a means for reconstructing cultural identity and promoting cultural tourism in Bandung City, Indonesia. This research employs qualitative research methods. Data collection is carried out through a literature study and field research using various approaches, including observations, interviews, and Focus Group Discussions with relevant stakeholders during JulyAugust 2023. Findings show that art festivals become a space where the politics of culture and cultural tourism meet different interests. At the same time, government policies appear to promote the preservation of vernacular culture and local traditions in order to improve tourism attractions. The paper concludes that the festivals serve as a significant place for cultural commodification, even if their primary goals are to celebrate cultural identity.

RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL DEMARCATION: THE MYSTICISM DIMENSION IN THE PAJONJONG BAGAS TRADITION BY THE BATAK ANGKOLA MUSLIM COMMUNITY

Abstract This study aims to determine the mystical dimensions of the pajonjong bagas ceremony, a series of rituals in building a new house, as part of the culture of the Batak Angkola community. In this traditional ceremony, several rituals contain mystical elements, to influence the beliefs of Ahlu Sunnah wal Jama'ah. Based on the qualitative study, an ethnographic approach was employed, with data obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation of the entire pajonjong bagas ceremonial processes in the Batang Angkola sub-district, South Tapanuli. The results showed that the pajonjong bagas encompassed a high philosophical value and were highly beneficial for the community, specifically for those establishing new houses and still deeply rooted in local traditions or wisdom. However, several elements of the rituals were not explicitly studied or significant in the teachings of Islam. Various symbols were also used in the ceremony, such as coconut, sugarcane and palm sugar, chayote, and banana symbolizing usefulness, sweet speech actualization, continuity, and coolness. All these symbols were assembled and hung on the rabung bukkulan, a wooden structure used as a framework. This cultural accommodation was subsequently associated with local and Sufi mysticism.

Terracotta tiles in Bengal. Decorations and techniques in Mosques of the Sultanate period

The mosques of Bengal exhibit a unique decorative style, representing diverse ornamentation on both interior and exterior facades. This diversity reflects the varied backgrounds of the artisans, culminating in what can be termed 'Bengali style' emerging from external influences and local Bengali traditions. This style spread along the ancient Bengal region during the sultanate period 944-1538; including present West Bengal and Bangladesh. This research, based on field studies and observation in Kolkata, Malda, Orissa, Bihar, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh, aims to identify the aesthetic features in Bengal sultanate mosques connected to a specific mode of decoration: the employment of terracotta tiles. Employing a chronological study backed by statistics, the research seeks to address questions about the terracotta tiles’ properties, artistic origins, techniques used, and the impact of geographical and cultural variables on its diversity. Furthermore, an attempt is made to propose approximate dates for five mosques with uncertain dates based on their artistic style properties.

Pergeseran dan Pemertahanan Bahasa Daerah Pengrajin Kayu di Kabupaten Tegal

This research examines the maintenance and shift of Javanese and other regional languages among wood craftsmen in Tegal Regency, Indonesia. Regional languages are integral to cultural identity, and their retention or shift reflects broader social and cultural dynamics. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected through observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. The study employs thematic analysis to provide an in-depth understanding of language use patterns. Findings reveal a linguistic dualism in the community. While Indonesian dominates formal situations, reflecting adaptation to broader communication needs, Javanese and other regional languages prevail in daily interactions, indicating the continuity of local cultural traditions. This language shift and maintenance are influenced by social context, education, and work environment factors. The study contributes to our understanding of language ecology in multilingual Indonesian contexts, drawing on Fishman's domain analysis. It highlights how communities navigate between national and regional languages, adapting to different communication needs while preserving cultural identity. These findings have implications for language policy and cultural preservation efforts in Indonesia, particularly in balancing national unity with linguistic diversity.

Adaption of Neo-Vernacular Architecture in Contemporary Temples in India: Insights from Selected Case Studies

India has a rich cultural diversity, and often faces challenges in the preservation of these cultural traits manifested in traditional architectural values. In fact, it has undergone tremendous changes in its buildings over the years due to modernization which has impacted its architectural landscape. In this context, there is a need for a dynamic response to balance the traditions with innovations and modernity. The call for an architectural style that would minimize environmental impact while honoring local traditions require the development of new concepts. Such concepts also need to meet structural stability requirements and incorporate technological interventions. In fact, these give rise to a style often known as Neo-Vernacular architecture. This paper explores the integration of Neo-Vernacular elements and their role in the traditional Indian temples and how they affect the multifaceted functions. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method. It focuses on case studies of three temples from different regions to explore the characteristics and principles of Neo-Vernacular architecture. Data was collected through site visits to these three Temples: Lotus Temple in New Delhi, the Temple of Shiva in Barmer, Rajasthan and Nandyal Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh. It also derives data from literature to support these findings. It concludes that the adaption of Neo Vernacular architecture in modern Indian temples marks a crucial juncture where tradition intersects with innovation to transform the built environment. It is argued that this architectural style is significant in preserving cultural heritage while meeting the changing needs of the society.

Improving Ecotourism and Msmes Competence Through Ecotravel and Local Business Boost In Puhu Payangan Village, Gianyar

This study aims to identify the potential challenges faced by Puhu Village, Payangan District, and Gianyar Regency in efforts to develop a tourism-based economy and empower MSMEs in the local village. Puhu Village is one of the villages in Bali that has abundant natural and cultural wealth but has yet to be fully utilized optimally. This study uses a qualitative approach with field observation methods, in-depth interviews, and secondary data analysis to collect relevant information. The study results indicate that Puhu Village has great potential in developing nature-based tourism sectors, such as agrotourism and ecotourism, supported by natural beauty, local wisdom, and local traditions. However, several challenges must be overcome, including a lack of supporting infrastructure, minimal promotion, and low community participation in tourism activities. This study recommends improving infrastructure, training for local communities, and more effective MSME promotion strategies to support economic development in Puhu Village. With proper management, the potential of this village can be developed sustainably and provide economic benefits to the local community without ignoring aspects of environmental and cultural preservation.