By: Jumi Petronela joz
Kalamba Village in Haharu District, East Sumbawa Regency, is a village rich in traditional and cultural values, passed down through generations by ancestors through traditions and rituals (hamayang) carried out by traditional elders (wunang). However, these traditional and cultural values are fading due to development. Many younger generations are no longer familiar with and understand the values inherent in the various rituals and traditions of their own village.
Therefore, in March 2025, the Bumi Lestari Institute held a Field School activity related to the preservation of customs and culture in Kalamba Village. The Field School was conducted using a participatory learning method based on real-life experiences of the indigenous community at the village level. Through this approach, the community, especially the younger generation, can be directly involved in the learning process and share local knowledge to preserve the cultural values that have long been an integral part of their lives.
There are several types of field schools related to customs and culture held by the indigenous people of Kalamba Village. The first is the Marapu Traditional Ritual Field School (hamayang). This tradition is often practiced by adherents of the belief in the One Almighty God (Marapu). This activity is often carried out at the beginning of the planting season. Before starting the planting season, farmers seek guidance from the Creator so that their crops can be protected from pests. Similarly, when harvesting their crops, the Marapu community performs a prayer ritual (hamayang) to seek blessings from the Creator.
Second, the Kalamba Village History Field School is held to remind the younger generation of Kalamba Village about history so they know the origins of their ancestors. In Kalamba Village, there are several clans (kabihu): the Kapombung and Kombul from Prainatang Mondu. Then there is the Tumbu Kawawu clan, originating from Kondu Lenang from Hambuang, and the Amba Leling clan from Kalamba. After that, the Manolang clan originates from Laita Kalaring. Next, the Anamacua clan originates from Kapunduk Umajangga. Finally, the Ndai Dipi clan originates from Hambapraing Pinduharani Kalibatu Bokul. In addition to being related to the history and customs of Kalamba Village, there are also traditions in the form of traditional dances and music that will be preserved by the indigenous people of Kalamba Village.
"Because the customs and culture in the village are so sacred, a traditional ritual should be performed before discussing the village customs, so that no obstacles or barriers arise. The ritual involves slaughtering a red rooster and offering betel and areca nuts," said Kalamba Village Leader Lohi Nakil.
