North Sumatra Pushes for UNESCO Recognition for Bawomataluo Village

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Bawomataluo, perched 324 meters above the sea level in South Nias Regency, North Sumatra, is no ordinary settlement. Established centuries ago, the village preserves traces of ancient life that remain vibrant today.

From the traditional stone-jumping ritual known as fahombo, a symbol of maturity and courage, to megalithic relics used in customary ceremonies and markers of social status, Bawomataluo embodies a living heritage.

Towering above the village is the iconic Omo Sebua, a massive wooden stilt house once belonging to tribal chiefs. Built from hardwood and earthquake-resistant, it stands as a masterpiece of Nias architecture.

“We are currently processing Bawomataluo’s recognition as a UNESCO site. Socialization has been carried out in Nias, and we will continue with the preparation of the dossier,” Acting Head of the Provincial Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Agency, Yuda Pratiwi Setiawan, said during a press briefing in Medan on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Yuda explained that the village’s traditions, including fahombo and the Omo Sebua house, highlight the uniqueness of Nias’s megalithic culture, which has endured through generations. Bawomataluo, meaning “Sun Hill,” has been on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2009.

“The provincial administration continues to push for international recognition of this destination in the Nias Islands,” Yuda said, emphasizing that the village reflects high cultural value, evident in its geography and community life.

Bawomataluo showcases well-preserved traditional settlements, including the Omo Sebua, which is more than 200 years old. Its stone-jumping tradition remains authentic and continues to attract visitors to North Sumatra.

Following the socialization stage, the proposal will move to a preliminary assessment, a requirement before full nomination to UNESCO. “According to UNESCO procedures, this stage is mandatory before submitting an official nomination,” Yuda said.

Beyond Bawomataluo, the provincial administration is also promoting the protection and preservation of other cultural heritage sites, including the historic Azizi Mosque in Langkat Regency.

Yuda added that regencies and municipalities are being encouraged to complete administrative requirements so that local heritage sites can be elevated to provincial status. ***