West Sumatra, 30 September 2024 — A student from the Library and Information Science (PSI) Study Program at the Faculty of Communication Sciences (FIKOM), Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), has completed a significant study on cultural preservation efforts. Titled “Strengthening Minangkabau Cultural Literacy through the Sapakan Pagelaran Alek Kesenian Anak Nagari Andaleh Baruh Bukik event,” the research highlights how local traditions can be an effective tool for boosting cultural literacy among the younger generation.
The research was led by Wulan Apriani, an undergraduate student, under the guidance of lecturers Yunus Winoto and Samson CMS. The objective was to explore the role of cultural events, specifically the Sapakan Alek Kesenian in Nagari Andaleh Baruh Bukik, in fostering understanding and appreciation of Minangkabau cultural heritage amidst the challenges of cultural homogenization from globalization.
Using a qualitative method with a case study approach, the research involved participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The researcher examined how this event serves as a conscious effort to preserve local traditions such as arts, dances, and traditional children’s games, and its impact on the local community.
The findings revealed that the Sapakan Alek Kesenian not only successfully strengthened social bonds among residents but also significantly increased the younger generation’s understanding and appreciation of their Minangkabau cultural heritage. The event acts as a bridge between traditional values and modern life, helping young people understand their identity in the face of globalization.
However, the study also identified key challenges, including the influence of globalization and changes in educational curricula that remove local Minangkabau cultural content. Therefore, the study recommends the integration of cultural activities into formal education and close collaboration among government, communities, and traditional institutions to ensure cultural literacy continues to be strengthened outside of school.
This academic publication provides practical and relevant insights for cultural preservation efforts. Its contributions align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by emphasizing informal, culturally-rooted education, and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) which focuses on preserving cultural heritage.
The article has been published in the Informatio Journal: Journal of Library and Information Science. It is hoped that these findings will inspire other communities across Indonesia to use local traditions as a way to maintain cultural identity and empower the youth in the digital age.
The publication results can be accessed via the following link: http://media.unpad.ac.id/files/publikasi/2025/rpm_20250209195115_2126.pdf
Writers: Ridha Amalia, Nadziva Shaqeena, and Muhammad Ihsan Fauzul Haq
