Indonesian Ethnicities with Deep-Rooted Traditions of Wandering

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia is known for its ethnic and cultural diversity, with several ethnic groups having a strong tradition of wandering. Wandering is not just a matter of changing residence, but also a part of the life journey passed down from generation to generation.

This phenomenon is often observed during the Eid al-Fitr homecoming. The movement of holiday travelers back to their hometowns to celebrate Eid al-Fitr illustrates this tradition to some extent. Many factors drive people from certain ethnicities to leave their hometowns, ranging from economic reasons, education, to the influence of cultural and social systems that have developed over centuries.

According to various sources, here are some ethnic groups in Indonesia with strong wandering traditions.

1. Batak

The tradition of wandering among the Batak people only began to develop around the 19th and 20th centuries, but during this period, the tradition has taken deep root in the lives of the Batak people. As cited from the book titled Hagabeon, Hamoraon, Hasangapon by Agus Parasian Sinaga, the Batak people adhere to the philosophy of Hagabeon (many descendants), Hasangapon (honor), Habontaron (wealth), and Harajaon (power), which became their main impetus to leave their hometowns and seek for a better life in various regions. Today, Batak communities can be found in almost all parts of Indonesia and are known for their strong work ethic and fighting spirit.

2. Minangkabau

The Minangkabau people are one of the ethnic groups with the strongest traditions of wandering in Indonesia. The term "Merantau" comes from the Minang language, which means going to the 'rantau' region or areas outside the homeland. As cited from a Tempo article titled 5 Principles of Minangkabau Migration, this tradition has been going on since the 7th century and is generally carried out by adult Minangkabau men. They leave their hometowns to gain experience, education, and economic success. Interestingly, despite the many Minang travelers scattered in various regions, they still maintain ties with their hometowns and often return with the knowledge and wealth they have acquired.

3. Javanese

Although the Javanese are traditionally known for the philosophy of "mangan ora mangan asal kumpul," reflecting the value of togetherness and family ties, in recent decades, the culture of wandering has rapidly developed among them. Today, Javanese people can be found in almost all of Indonesia, and even abroad.

Their ability to adapt to new environments and flexible nature make them accepted by local communities. Although they do not have as strong a tradition of wandering as other ethnic groups, such as the Minangkabau or Bugis-Makassar, their widespread presence indicates significant mobility over the past few generations.

4. Banjar

The Banjar people from South Kalimantan also have a tradition of wandering that has been going on for hundreds, even thousands of years. They are not only scattered in various regions of Indonesia, such as Central Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, Riau, and Jambi, but also as far as Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. History also records that their descendants can even be found in Madagascar, indicating massive migration. Their identity as Banjar people has remained intact despite having lived in exile for a long time.

5. Bugis-Makassar

The Bugis-Makassar people are a community well known as seasoned travelers, even since the time of the kingdom. Their tradition of wandering has further developed after the defeat of the Gowa Kingdom in the 1667 Bongaya Treaty, which led many Bugis-Makassar people to leave their hometowns. With proficient maritime skills, they spread to various parts of the Malay Archipelago and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Tenacity, a spirit of freedom, and trading skills are the main factors in their success abroad.

6. Bawean

The Bawean people originate from a small island between Kalimantan and Java. Although their population is not as large as other ethnic groups, the percentage of Bawean exiles is very high compared to the population in their hometown. Since the 19th century, many Bawean people have migrated to Malaysia, where they are better known as "Orang Boyan." Their abilities in various fields of work, from labor to entrepreneurship, have enabled them to survive and thrive in the land of exile.

7. Madurese

The Madurese people have a fairly strong tradition of wandering, although the number of their travelers is not as large as the Minangkabau or Bugis-Makassar. They have moved to various regions in Indonesia, especially to Java Island and Kalimantan. In recent decades, an increasing number of Madurese people have migrated to Sumatra and other regions.

Wilda Hasanah contributed to the writing of this article.

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