Several Jembrana cultural traditions recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage

Jembrana, Bali — Several cultural traditions from Jembrana Regency in Bali have been recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) following official designation by Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture.

“A total of ten cultural traditions from Jembrana have now received ICH certificates. The latest two are the Payas Dirga bridal costume and traditional Loloan woven cloth,” said Anak Agung Komang Sapta Negara, Head of the Tourism and Culture Service of Jembrana Regency, in Negara, Jembrana Regency, on Monday.

“Their distinctiveness lies in the use of mendori flowers, which are now becoming rare, as well as the distinctive gelung tanduk (horn-shaped) accessories,” he explained.

Regarding the Loloan woven cloth, he noted it serves as a powerful representation of the Bugis-Melayu ethnic identity that has inhabited Jembrana Regency for centuries.

According to him, the woven cloth is governed by strict customary regulations, with weavers prohibited from using animal or human motifs. Instead, the designs feature plant and geometric patterns as symbols of the Loloan community’s character: firm, courteous, and devout in their religious observance.

“We continue to document existing cultural potential. Once catalogued, we assess which traditions are eligible for proposal. The process is quite rigorous, as in addition to the physical works, qualified sources must also be available to provide in-depth explanations,” he said.

During the proposal process, he noted that his office collaborates with the Cultural Preservation Centre to assist with academic manuscript preparation and identification of expert sources.

Following the Payas Dirga bridal costume and Loloan woven cloth, his office is currently proposing Jaje Bendu, Arja Sewagati, Arisan Dedara, Angklung Reyong, and Loloan Malay language for ICH certification.