KBRN, OKU: A rare manuscript written in the original Ulu script by a resident of Karang Lantang Muara Jaya Village in South Sumatra's Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU) Regency has surfaced, offering crucial insight into the enduring legacy of the Ogan tribe's written tradition.

The discovery confirms that Ulu, or Surat Ulu script, remained active in the Ogan Ulu region as recently as the 1970s, preserving a noble tradition of local literacy.

Cultural researcher and Ogan heritage advocate Dandy Naufalzach Fadlurahman noted that the manuscript's distinguishing feature is its regional script variation, which is unique to the Ogan style.

The character forms correspond with those used in a standardized version of Surat Ulu codified in earlier research by scholar Mgs Aminullah in the Kedaton Peninjauan area of OKU.

"The script follows the basic 'Ke-Ge-Nge' phonetic structure. But what makes this manuscript truly significant is its content. As a customary practitioner authored, it contains detailed notes on implementing village traditions in Karang Lantang—particularly those involving buffalo farming, the community's primary livelihood," Dandy explained on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

According to cultural outlet Aksara Ogan, the manuscript contains valuable records, including family genealogies, chants for nugal (dryland rice planting), rituals for Dekahan Pemadangan Khebau (a buffalo release thanksgiving ceremony), and descriptions of traditional dodol and ceremonial delicacies.

While the document may not qualify as ancient, Dandy emphasized its rich cultural significance and anthropological value.

"It teaches us about the living customs of the Ogan people," he said. "This manuscript is a meaningful addition to the body of knowledge surrounding the cultural heritage of the Ogan tribe." ***

Translator: Naura Sofia

Editor: Lasti Martina