MINI RESEARCH

"Analysis of the Role of Simalungun Tribe in Preserving Local Culture"

Lecture : Ma'am Dr. Masitowarni Siregar, M.Ed.

Arrangement by Group 4 :

 Nadiyya Anis Khairani

 Nurul Khaifah
 Keteryn Natalio Panjaitan

ENGLISH EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

FACULTY OF LANGUAGES AND ARTS

STATE UNIVERSITY OF MEDAN

2023
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

A. Background Of Study
The study's background focuses on the Simalungun Tribe, a distinct indigenous
group residing in a specific region, and examines their contributions to environmental
preservation, the maintenance of their language and traditional ceremonies, and the
challenges they encounter in safeguarding their cultural heritage. This research is
significant due to the increasing global concern for environmental conservation and the
preservation of indigenous cultures. Understanding the Simalungun Tribe's practices and
struggles can provide insights into sustainable coexistence between indigenous
communities and the environment, as well as shed light on the broader issue of cultural
preservation in the face of modernization and external influences.

B. Problem Formulation
1. How does the Simalungun Tribe contribute to the preservation of the environment
and biodiversity?
2. How do the Simalungun maintain and preserve their language and traditional
ceremonies?
3. What challenges do the Simalungun face in maintaining their cultural heritage?

C. Purpose of Writing
1. To find out how the Simalungun Tribe contributes to the preservation of the
environment and biodiversity.
2. To find out how the Simalungun Tribe maintains and preserves their language and
traditional ceremonies.
3. To find out what challenges the Simalungun Tribe faces in maintaining their
cultural heritage.
 CHAPTER II

LITERATURE REVIEW

The Simalungun tribe is the indigenous tribe that inhabits Simalungun Regency.
Reporting from the official website of Simalungun Regency, this district is directly adjacent to
Toba Regency to the south and Karo Regency to the west.

Therefore, it is also not surprising that the Simalungun tribe has several similarities with
the Toba and Karo Batak tribes. In running their daily lives, the Simalungun people have a
philosophy that is the basis of their lives. In addition, they also have a kinship system similar to
the Toba and Karo Batak tribes.

Based on a book entitled Euphemisms in Simalungun Language by Dr. Anita Purba,

M.Hum, the Simalungun tribe has the philosophy of 'Habonaron do Bona'. Habonaron comes
from the word bonar which means right in thought, ethics, morals, norms, and religion, while do
means only, and Bona means the beginning or the beginning. Combined, this philosophy means
that truth is the only thing that takes precedence.

This philosophy underlies the lives of the Simalungun people and is a symbol of their
local government. Habonaron do Bona can be implemented in daily life, such as actions, talks,
thoughts, and others.
 CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews as the primary
data collection method. The researcher conducted interviews with native descendants of the
Simalungun Tribe, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of their contributions to environmental
preservation, the maintenance of their language and traditional ceremonies, and the challenges
they face in safeguarding their cultural heritage. The choice of qualitative methodology allows
for a nuanced exploration of the lived experiences and perspectives of the Simalungun
community members.

The sample for the interviews was purposively selected to include individuals with
diverse experiences and roles within the Simalungun Tribe, ensuring a comprehensive
representation of their community. The interviews were semi-structured, allowing flexibility to
explore emerging themes while ensuring key topics related to environmental conservation,
cultural practices, and challenges were addressed. The data obtained from the interviews will be
analyzed thematically, identifying patterns and insights that contribute to a comprehensive
understanding of the Simalungun Tribe's relationship with their environment and cultural
heritage. Additionally, the study incorporates an analysis of norms and values within a
respondent's family to provide a more holistic perspective on the cultural dynamics influencing
environmental and cultural preservation within the Simalungun community.
 CHAPTER III

FINDING AND DISCUSSION

Results from interviews with native descendants of the Simalungun tribe

Respondent : Ma’am Masraya Sitompul

1. Traditional communities contribute by preserving local knowledge of ecosystems,

practicing sustainable agriculture, and respecting the balance of nature in their daily lives.
2. Simalungun communities preserve their language and traditional ceremonies through
intergenerational practices and community involvement in cultural activities such as
traditional gatherings and festivals. In addition, informal education within the community
plays an important role in passing on their cultural heritage to the younger generation.
3. The Simalungun tribe faces various challenges in preserving their cultural heritage,
including the impact of modernization, lifestyle changes, and the declining interest of the
younger generation in their traditions and language. In addition, globalization can put
pressure on traditional aspects of Simalungun culture.

Norms applied in the respondent's family :

1. According to the respondent, in his family there are norms of ethics and honor, namely
respecting elders, always maintaining politeness in everyday life. Respect for traditional
authority and elders in decision-making and conflict resolution.
2. Respondent also still follows the prevailing customs and traditions, namely following the
rules and habits that have been passed down from generation to generation, including
certain ceremonies at weddings or other small events.
3. There is also an attitude of concern for the environment, maintaining family togetherness
and realizing the importance of education. Respondents still apply the importance of
instilling the values of education and knowledge, both formally and informally in their
families.
Values applied in the respondent's family :

1. The respondent's family still appreciates simplicity in their family in daily life.
2. The respondent's family is still very respectful of tradition, namely still maintaining and
preserving traditional values, including language and customs, to pass on cultural
heritage to the next generation.
3. Having a fairly close family, all families support other family members to advance or
succeed in their careers.

CHAPTER IV

CONCLUSION AND SUGGESTION

A. Conclusion
The interviews shed light on the Simalungun Tribe's significant
contributions to environmental preservation and cultural heritage. Despite
challenges from modernization and waning interest among youth, their
commitment to tradition remains strong.

B. Suggestion
1. Encourage youth involvement in cultural events.
2. Include cultural education in formal schooling.
3. Raise awareness and advocate for cultural preservation.
4. Explore economic opportunities tied to cultural heritage.
5. Emphasize family unity to uphold traditions.
 Appendix Biodata of respondents

Name : Masraya Sitompul

Born in : 1956

Age : 67 Years Old