Sumba, an island located in eastern Indonesia, has a rich history and culture. One of the interesting aspects of Sumba culture is their unique social structure, namely the existence of vertical social classes which still persist to this day. This system is known as "maramba" (master) and "ata" (servant). Even though times are increasingly modern, this system remains difficult to change because it has been passed down from generation to generation, based on customary agreements and oaths between tribes and villages.
Maramba is a person who has servants (ata) and holds great prerogatives. Maramba can give orders to the ata which they must carry out. In Sumbanese society, there are terms such as "Umbu Nai" for men and "Rambu Nai" for women, which are often followed by the names of their servants.
The Maramba group is a noble class, which according to history has maintained its status within the social structure of Sumba society itself. Maramba's position as a nobleman was not due to his high level of education or wealth, but was based on his origin.
Ata are also called tau kuru uma (people in the house) divided into three groups, namely the Heritage Servants. They were servants brought by the ancestors of the Sumba people in the past. Then, there were the New Servants, where they became slaves because they were bought (paid dowry with customary animals) or became prisoners during the war. Lastly, Innate Servants, where they are servants given by their parents to their children in marriage.
They do not have the freedom to become maramba, because this system is passed down from generation to generation. The ata have varied duties, such as caring for livestock, cultivating the garden, preparing food, and fulfilling the orders of their maramba. Maramba's treatment of ata varies, some treat it well and some treat it arbitrarily.
From the perspective of today's society, the social system of Sumba society invites debate related to modern slavery. Where individuals or groups are treated like property, exploited, and deprived of their freedom, which is often inhumane. They lose control over their own lives. They are ruled by others and have no choice or right to make decisions about their lives.
In the context of the Maramba and Ata hierarchy, some people may experience physical violence, verbal violence and even psychological oppression often occurs. Where it often happens that the Ata are not allowed by their masters to pursue a higher level of education, they face physical violence when they make mistakes in pronouncing honorary calls such as Rambu/Umbu.
However, it should be noted that there are sources that classify Sumba people in different ways. This shows variations in people's understanding of this system. In East Sumba society, the role of the Ata is not always negative. They are provided shelter, food, or protection by the Maramba, who essentially act as guardians for them.
As is the case for the Pusaka Servant group, where their position is special. They could become treasurers, spokespersons, trusted bodyguards for their masters, and even be entrusted by their masters to look after a number of livestock to look after.
In conclusion, Sumba culture has rich origins and a unique social system. Social stratification that still persists today, the patrilineal lineage system, and the role of ata in marriage are important elements in Sumbanese culture. This culture reflects the depth of history and cultural heritage that should be preserved in an ever-changing society.
To achieve a deeper understanding of the relationship between Maramba and Ata, further research is needed and it is important to remind us that when we face issues such as modern slavery in a rich cultural context, a respectful and collaborative approach is key to achieving change. positive.
*Written by: Yohanes Levin Lampe, Estungkara Internship Student, UGM_FISIPOL 2023
