Pelestarian Adat Arat Sabulungan Tahun 2026

Abstract

This research was conducted because of the importance of preserving the Arat Sabulungan Custom as part of the Mentawai people's cultural heritage, which has important social, cultural, spiritual, and environmental values. Arat Sabulungan is a traditional belief of the Mentawai people that regulates the relationship between humans and nature, ancestors, and social life in society. However, the progress of modernization and globalization has become a problem in efforts to maintain the sustainability of this custom. This research aims to determine the form and values ​​of the Arat Sabulungan Custom that are still carried out by the community, the methods and efforts made to preserve this custom, the factors that support and hinder the preservation process, the role of the younger generation in maintaining the continuity of tradition, and how the values ​​of Arat Sabulungan can contribute to maintaining the environment and sustainable development. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews, observations, and document recording. Informants in this study included Sikerei, indigenous communities, the younger generation, and local governments, who were selected using a purposive sampling method. The data obtained were then processed through several stages, namely reducing data, presenting data, and drawing conclusions. Research shows that the Arat Sabulungan tradition is still practiced through traditional ceremonies, traditional healing practices, traditional dances, respect for ancestors, and the wise use of natural resources. Preservation of this tradition is achieved through the transmission of cultural values ​​to the younger generation, the continuous implementation of traditional rituals, the active participation of the Sikerei (traditional community leaders), broad community involvement, and support from the local government.