PSI on Buffalo Head Ritual: It Wasn't Jokowi's Idea

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has clarified the meaning behind the ritual in which Indonesia’s seventh president, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), stepped on a buffalo head during a political safari in Lampung on Saturday (27/8).

PSI DPP Chair Bestari Barus confirmed that the ritual was not carried out at Jokowi’s request, but was instead an honour bestowed by the Lampung indigenous community in recognition of his contributions as president. “The ritual was not created by Mr Jokowi. He was merely the recipient of the title,” Bestari said when contacted on Monday (29/6).

He added that, based on information he had received, the ritual and honorary title had previously been conferred upon other national figures, including a former president. However, Bestari declined to name the other former president in question. “This ritual is not only for Mr Jokowi. Many other national figures have received it. In fact, according to reports I have heard—though they need confirmation—one of our former presidents also received it and stepped on the buffalo head,” he said.

As a cultural heritage, Bestari argued the ritual should not be perceived or accused of being an act of arrogance. He described such accusations as an insult to indigenous customs and urged all parties to verify facts before making baseless allegations. “Party cadres should ask first. Or ask their party chairperson whether they have ever received it. That is what I think,” he stated.

Jokowi received the title “Baginda Pemuka Bangsa” during a traditional Lampung ceremony held at Kedatun Keagungan on Jalan Sultan Haji, Bandar Lampung, on Saturday (27/6). During the procession, Jokowi, seated and dressed in traditional attire, stepped on a buffalo head placed on a red carpet.

Traditional leader Mawardi Rahma Harirama, who holds the title Sultan Seghayo Dipuncak Nur, explained that the muakhi (title-giving) procession has been an inseparable part of Lampung culture for thousands of years. “This muakhi procession has been taking place in Lampung for thousands of years. It is part of implementing piil pesenggiri, the Lampung cultural philosophy that prioritises nemui nyimah, or hospitality,” Mawardi said.