His full name is Cecep Sanusi, a 23 year old young man who has chosen a different path in life than most college graduates. At a time when many young people leave their hometowns for careers in big cities, Cecep returns to his cultural roots and traditions. He dedicated his life to strengthening the traditional community in his hometown, proving that progress and tradition can go hand in hand.
Cecep was born in a remote village in Lebak Regency, Banten Province, specifically in Cirompang Village. This village is one of the indigenous communities located to the west of the Kendeng Mountains, which according to Kasepuhan people's belief is the backbone of the island of Java.
The Kasepuhan people are known to firmly uphold their ancestral traditions, especially in terms of nature management. They live and settle in the Halimun-Salak ecosystem area.
As part of a traditional community, life in Cirompang Village focuses on agriculture. Village residents, including the Cecep family, rely on farming in the rice fields and gardening vegetables and fruit to meet their daily needs. The philosophy of living simply and being grateful for the good fortune they receive, "Saeutik mahi loba nyesa" which means "a little must be enough, a lot must be left over," is their guide in life.
Cecep studied higher education in Bandung. During college, he often went back and forth between Bandung and Cirompang, allowing him to stay involved in activities in the village. He took part in the Estungkara Program through RMI which actively provides assistance to young people in Kasepuhan. He participated in various mentoring and training activities until he finally became one of the prominent cadres in the KAWAL Forum, a forum for youth and women's solidarity in Kasepuhan.
After graduating as a bachelor, Cecep decided to return to his hometown. With the knowledge he gained during college, he kept himself busy with various activities with young people in Kasepuhan Cirompang. He initiated various programs, ranging from contextual education such as a traditional-based Reading Garden, to traditional education for young people with an activity called "Cangkir" or Kisancang Thinking, whose activities involve traditional leaders in conveying traditions and ancestral teachings.
Cecep is concerned about the condition of young people in Kasepuhan who are starting to move away from traditional values due to the influence of modernization. Many young people are tempted by the glamorous city life, so they choose to leave the village. This threatens the continuity of culture and traditions that have been passed down from ancestors.
With a strong background and determination, Cecep decided to stay in the village and contribute to his community. For him, the economy is not the only measure of welfare. Happiness and inner peace are important aspects that must be maintained. He hopes that Kasepuhan's young generation can find a balance between keeping up with the times and maintaining traditional values.
Cecep and his community documented the local knowledge of Kasepuhan Cirompang. He succeeded in uniting young people from various villages around Cirompang through a youth community called Kisancang. Through custom-based activities and contextual education, Cecep believes that inner and outer prosperity can be achieved, creating a harmonious and empowered Kasepuhan community, without having to leave their hometown.
Cecep hopes that in the future, young people in Kasepuhan can find a balance between keeping up with the times and maintaining traditional values. He also hopes that the younger generation will not forget the cultural roots and traditions that have shaped their identity. By developing custom-based activities and contextual education, Cecep believes that inner and outer prosperity can be achieved, creating a harmonious and empowered Kasepuhan community.
Cecep Sanusi is a clear example of a young person who has a strong determination to maintain and develop ancestral culture and traditions. With his service, he has brought new hope to Cirompang Village and has become an inspiration for other young generations to maintain their cultural heritage. Through his efforts and dedication, Cecep shows that progress and tradition can go hand in hand, creating a prosperous and cultured society.
