Solok: Kukuk Balenggek Chicken Singing Contest as an Effort to Preserve Local Culture

Solok (ANTARA) - The Solok Regency Government (Pemkab) in West Sumatra has commended the implementation of the Kukuk Balenggek chicken or tiered crowing chicken contest at various levels as an effort to increase public interest in preserving local culture. Solok Regent Jon Firman Pandu, in Solok on Friday, stated that the event, which serves as a platform for preserving Minangkabau culture, is held with the aim of maintaining the existence of the Kukuk Balenggek chicken as one of the traditional riches of local culture unique to West Sumatra, particularly Solok Regency. In addition, the contest also serves as a means to strengthen ties among communities of Kukuk Balenggek chicken enthusiasts. The Solok Regent also appreciated the organising committee and all participants who have contributed to the success of the event. He emphasised that the Kukuk Balenggek chicken is not merely a pet but also part of cultural identity that must be protected and preserved. “Through this event, we are not only preserving traditions but also opening economic opportunities for the community, especially for Balenggek chicken breeders,” said Jon. The Aika Salimpek Saiyo Sakato Cup II Kukuk Balenggek Chicken Contest featured various judging categories, from landik and boko classes to special classes based on the length and beauty of the crowing sound (kukuak), as well as the chicken’s performance in the arena. The organising committee hopes that this event can be held sustainably and become an annual agenda capable of attracting tourists and enhancing local economic potential in Solok Regency. In addition, the Solok Regency Government has designated the Kukuk Balenggek chicken contest as an annual agenda to revive and preserve it as a local asset. The Kukuk Balenggek chicken originates from Solok Regency, West Sumatra, particularly in the Payung Sekaki and Tigo Lurah sub-districts. This chicken is famous as a “singing chicken” due to its melodious, long, and tiered crowing (in Minang language, balenggek). The Kukuk Balenggek chicken is now becoming rare and threatened with extinction if not preserved. This is a local breed unique to West Sumatra, especially from the Solok area, renowned for its tiered crowing that is unique and can consist of up to a dozen syllables. Nevertheless, if left without preservation, it could eventually disappear completely.