The Harmony of Nature and Tradition: Indigenous People of Ili Nan Basiring Mudik Nan Batopi
In Air Liki Baru Village, the community flows the harmony of nature and tradition into their daily lives. This village in Merangin Regency, Jambi Province, is not only a place to live, but also a source of local wisdom that they have nurtured for generations. Every morning, the sun shines on the forests and rice fields, while the flowing Batang Tabir River and the chirping of birds give life to the village. The indigenous people there not only farm, but also care for their ancestral heritage as a form of respect for nature and culture that remains sustainable despite the challenges of the times.
The community formed Air Liki Baru Village administratively in 2008, making it one of the most remote villages in Jambi. They live on a plateau surrounded by hills, so access to the village can only be done by specialised vehicles such as double axle cars. This geographical location protects their customs from outside cultural influences, while preserving the original nuances of Ili Nan Basiring community life. The distance from the big city allows them to maintain their local wisdom without being distracted by modern culture that could potentially damage it.
Recognition as a Customary Law Community
In 2024, the Ili Nan Basiring Mudik Nan Batopi community received official recognition as a Customary Law Community from the Regent of Merangin, which was then proposed to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry for endorsement. They maintain a strong customary structure, led by Datuk Langkah, Datuk Lantak, and Orangtuo. This recognition encourages the community to continue maintaining their traditions, while strengthening their commitment to preserving the local environment and ecosystem.
The Batang Tabir River is an important symbol in the lives of people who live side by side with nature. They use the river as a source of water and natural irrigation for their rice fields, which are managed traditionally without the use of chemical fertilisers. The tradition of Lubuk Larangan, where people only catch fish once every two years, is maintained to this day. They open Lubuk Larangan with a joint prayer led by Datuk Langkah, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature. This tradition not only maintains the balance of the river ecosystem but also strengthens social relations between villagers.
Most of the community farms in the traditional way, relying on the rice fields that have been passed down from generation to generation. They hold a Doa Turun Kasawah ceremony before the planting period, starting with the slaughter of buffaloes and the distribution of the meat to all families in the village. Afterwards, residents gather to pray together in the rice fields, hoping for a bountiful harvest. This ceremony symbolises their unity and dependence on nature.
They protect the forest surrounding Air Liki Baru Village, including the Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS), through regular patrols conducted with the Community Conservation Group (KKM). The community also utilises the 303 hectares of customary forest that they manage for common interests, such as building public facilities. They impose sanctions on violators of customary rules, including the obligation to plant trees to restore the environment.
The community's seriousness in protecting the customary forest attracted support from various organisations. The Fauna Flora Indonesia Foundation - International Program (FFI-IP) provided training and seedlings, while the Community Forest Ecosystem Services (CFES) foundation and Pundi Sumatra inaugurated a five-year conservation programme for Panglima Pati Customary Forest in 2024. The programme helps improve the community's welfare while preserving the forest.
The saying ‘What is planted is what is reaped’ is an apt reflection of the people of Ili Nan Basiring Mudik Nan Batopi. The harmony between nature, farmers and tradition is at the core of this village's life. Nature provides them with a source of life, and the community protects it with traditional practices passed down from their ancestors. By preserving traditions and respecting nature, the people of this village show that human life and nature can work in harmony in a beautiful balance, bringing blessings to present and future generations.