Getting to Know the Baduy People and Their Unique Traditions

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Amid the development of modern life, the Baduy people in Banten continue to preserve traditions and ancestral customs passed down from generation to generation. This indigenous community, which lives in Kanekes Village, Lebak Regency, is known for its simple way of life and local wisdom that places nature at the center of their daily lives.

The Baduy people are divided into two groups, the Baduy Dalam and the Baduy Luar. The Baduy Dalam are known for adhering more strictly to customary rules and ancestral traditions, including restrictions on modern technology such as electricity, vehicles, and electronic devices. Meanwhile, the Baduy Luar have relatively less restrictive customary rules and are more open to outside influences, including the use of simple technologies and interactions with visitors from outside the community.

The Baduy Dalam and Baduy Luar areas are separated by the Cisimeut River. A bridge connecting the two areas uses tree roots found around the river, with bamboo added as part of its structure. Known as the Root Bridge, it is one example of how natural materials are incorporated into the daily lives of the Baduy people.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the differences between the Baduy Dalam and Baduy Luar can also be seen in their traditional clothing. The Baduy Dalam are identified by their white clothing and plain headscarves, while the Baduy Luar generally wear black or dark blue clothing with matching headscarves.

The Baduy way of life also includes rules closely related to environmental conservation. One of them is a prohibition on using soap and detergent when bathing or washing in rivers. Daily activities are carried out using natural materials while avoiding chemicals that could potentially pollute the environment.

Their principle of living in harmony with nature is also reflected in the construction of their traditional homes. Baduy houses are built using natural materials and do not rely on metal components. Instead, wooden pegs and ijuk fiber are used to join parts of the structure. This approach reflects the use of resources available in the surrounding environment to meet their housing needs.

Another tradition that continues to be preserved is Seba Baduy. According to the Banten Provincial Government, Seba Baduy is an ancestral tradition held annually after the harvest as an expression of gratitude. During the ceremony, the Baduy people walk from Kanekes Village to Rangkasbitung and onward to Serang to meet with government officials. The Lebak Regency Culture and Tourism Office also noted that the community brings and presents agricultural produce to the government as part of the Seba ceremony.

These traditions reflect the Baduy people's efforts to preserve their ancestral values amid changing times. Their simple way of life, adherence to customary traditions, and close relationship with nature are important parts of their cultural identity and contribute to Indonesia's rich diversity of indigenous cultures.