duniazie – An Experience in Sade, a Village with Its Unique Culture
Last holiday in December, I explored the beauty of Lombok Island, Indonesia. One of the destinations I wanted to visit was Sade Village, a traditional village of Sasak ethnic located in the middle of this island.
Sade Village, with its view of green hills and lush rice fields, offered a tourist experience that contrasted with urban life. The people of Sasak ethnic welcomed me with warm smiles and friendliness. Apart from that, I was also welcomed by the children there with their own song.
I started my exploration from a unique traditional Sasak house. These buildings were made from woven bamboo and palm leaves, giving a natural impression and blending with the surrounding environment.
The locals proudly introduced me to their traditions and culture. I had the opportunity to see the process of making Tenun, a traditional fabric of Sasak people that was passed down from generation to generation.
While walking along the village paths, I was presented with stunning natural views. Hills and vast rice fields made Sade Village look like paradise for nature lovers. I also saw children playing in their yard, with cheerful smiles that radiated happiness.
One of the most interesting experiences in Sade Village was when I interacted with the local community. They enthusiastically told stories about the village’s history, unique traditions, and daily life. I learned about the sustainability of Sasak culture, which traditional values were still upheld.
One of the unique habits was cleaning the house with buffalo dung. As a resident of Sade Village, cleaning the house using buffalo dung was an activity that showed the richness of local traditions and wisdom.
Buffalo dung or “cagak”, had many benefits in rural environments. Apart from being an excellent organic fertilizer for plants, buffalo dung was also used as a flooring material for traditional Sasak houses, and strengthened the bond between humans and nature.
I saw a performance of Pencak Silat, a typical Indonesian martial art. Pencak Silat performance in Sade Village provided an overview of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Pencak silat was performed by local youth who have undergone intensive training to maintain this tradition.
During the performance, I saw movements that were graceful, flexible, skilled, and full of meaning. This movement reflected strength and courage. The performers used various traditional weapons, such as machetes and sticks. Each movement was combined with the rhythm of traditional music, creating an amazing and captivating atmosphere among the audience.
Pencak Silat performances in Sade Village did not only provide entertainment, but it meant valuable cultural heritage. This experience enriched my understanding of Indonesia’s cultural diversity.
My trip to Sade Village, Lombok, brought me closer to the local wisdom and life of the Sasak people. In my opinion, Sade Village is not only a tourist destination, but also a reflection of Indonesia’s rich culture which should be preserved. With a heart full of memories, I left Sade Village with hope of returning one day.
3 Comments. Leave new
MasyaAllah, it’s a wonderful experience to get involved with Sade’s people. Hope that I can travel to Lombok and explore more about the culture and the unique people there.
thanks.. aamiin.. i hope so 🙂
aamin..
yes, Lombok is a great island..