Since 2010, Kasepuhan Cibarani has been assisted by Rimbawan Muda Indonesia (RMI) in a transformation journey aimed at creating an environment that supports women's empowerment, protection of customary forests, and economic development. This assistance is not only aimed at preserving customary values, but also strengthening the position of indigenous communities in facing the rapid flow of modernity. During that period, this momentum became a strategic step for the Kasepuhan community to gain recognition for their rights as indigenous communities. At the same time, it strengthened the capacity of their community to adapt to global challenges.
However, this journey was not without obstacles. One of the main conflicts faced was a tenure dispute triggered by the issuance of the Decree of the Minister of Forestry Number 175 of 2003. This decree expanded the conservation area of Mount Halimun Salak National Park (TNGHS) and unilaterally included most of the customary areas as part of the state forest. Cawisan land—which had previously been used as residential, agricultural, and public facilities for indigenous people—was claimed as a conservation area. This left deep wounds for the people who felt like “guests” on their own ancestral land.
In addition to tenure conflicts, Kasepuhan Cibarani also faces cultural intimidation, as happened in 2012 when a traditional ceremony Seren Taun forcibly disbanded by a religious mass organization. This incident left a deep trauma even though the Lebak Regency Government finally issued a Decree (SK) recognizing indigenous communities. RMI's assistance became an important turning point in this struggle.
Through education, advocacy, and participatory planning, indigenous peoples have succeeded in building self-confidence in fighting for their rights. Finally, in 2015, the Lebak Regional Government ratified Regional Regulation Number 8 of 2015 concerning the Recognition, Protection, and Empowerment of the Kasepuhan Indigenous Community.
In an effort to empower the community, various strategic programs were launched. One of the prominent initiatives is the Lebak Customary Territory Consolidation and Advocacy Forum (KAWAL). Which integrates the role of youth in advocacy and strengthening customary rights. On the other hand, the active participation of the Kasepuhan community in the Indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN) and Semi Local activities succeeded in encouraging the collective involvement of women and men in various agendas, including traditional ceremonies. Seren Taun. This synergy opens up space for communities to manage resources, improve education, build the economy, and fight for their customary rights.
However, major challenges still haunt. In 2024, the level of education of the Kasepuhan community is still relatively low, where the majority of the population is only an elementary or junior high school graduate. This condition triggers various social problems such as early marriage and divorce. Economically, many people choose to work outside the community, such as in Jakarta or Malaysia, to earn a living. On the other hand, awareness of environmental conservation is also not optimal, so that efforts to protect customary forests face various obstacles.
As part of the innovation efforts, several programs were introduced during the mentoring period. English Night Class designed to improve the English skills of the younger generation. Opening up opportunities for them to connect with the global world without leaving their local identity. In addition, skills seminars covering leadership, public speaking, and personal branding are held to strengthen the capacity of Kasepuhan youth.
The Kasepuhan Cibarani Youth Forum (FORMULASI) also actively utilizes social media platforms to promote local culture, making cyberspace a stage for their advocacy.
No less important, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with PKK mothers becomes an empowerment space that involves women in community-based development. This discussion aims to build families that are educational, creative, and able to adapt to changing times.
The transformation phenomenon in Kasepuhan Cibarani is a real example of community empowerment in facing modernity. Initiatives such as English Night Class and digital content creation not only improves people's practical skills, but also becomes a bridge between tradition and innovation.
As expressed by Sachs (2015), sustainable development requires a balance between social, economic, and environmental aspects. In the context of Kasepuhan, the preservation of customary forests and strengthening the local economy are two main pillars that complement each other.
The journey of Kasepuhan Cibarani is proof that tradition and modernity can live in harmony. With a strategy based on local wisdom and collective participation, Kasepuhan Cibarani has a great opportunity to become an example of the transformation of a resilient, inclusive, and relevant indigenous community amidst changing times. Hopefully, this story will inspire other indigenous communities to move towards a sustainable future without losing their cultural roots.
*Author: Ayu Maun Nadhifah (CRCS UGM), Estungkara Internship Participant 2024
