The Philosophy of the Makepung Tradition as a Cultural Magnet

As an agrarian country rich in culture, Indonesia continues to preserve traditions deeply rooted in the lives of its people. One such tradition is Makepung, an integral part of the cultural identity of Bali’s Jembrana Regency, which is more than just an ordinary buffalo race.

The Makepung tradition has long symbolized solidarity and the spirit of mutual cooperation, deeply ingrained in Balinese life. What makes this tradition so special? How does it remain relevant as part of Jembrana’s identity? This article delves deeper into the philosophy and cultural impact of Makepung as a cultural magnet for Balinese society.

The Background of Makepung

The Makepung tradition in Jembrana Regency, Bali, originated from agrarian activities closely tied to the daily lives of farmers. Negara, Pramana, & Raharjo (2021:30) note that around the 1920s, the tradition began as speed contests between rice transporters using carts (cikar) to carry their harvest. Over time, these simple races were given an aesthetic touch by landowners, evolving into a more structured competition known as pekepungan attractions.

By the 1930s, the tradition became known as Makepung Sawah. Aggariyana, Sunu, & Sanjaya (2019:46) describe the races as taking place in muddy rice fields, with jockeys dressed in outfits resembling ancient Balinese royal warriors. Their distinctive attire included destar (headbands), scarves, selempod (sashes), long pants, and bare feet, complemented by swords in poleng (checkered) sheaths.

In the 1960s, due to the challenges posed by muddy conditions, the tradition transformed into Makepung on dry tracks. Lightweight plows (bajak lampit) replaced small carts, and the jockeys’ costumes became more modern, featuring batik destar, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and shoes.

Additionally, Suhendra (2023:14) notes that “Makepung,” which means “chasing one another” in Balinese, reflects the communal spirit of Jembrana’s people. This tradition evolved into two types of races: Makepung Lampid and Makepung Darat, both preserved to this day.

The community plays an active role in maintaining the tradition by caring for the buffalo, participating in the races, and enlivening each event. Government support is equally vital, with policies facilitating the implementation of this tradition as part of efforts to preserve cultural heritage, a cornerstone of Jembrana’s identity.

The Philosophy Behind Makepung

The Makepung tradition is a cultural heritage of Jembrana’s agrarian society, embodying profound philosophical values. It manifests the concept of Tri Hita Karana, a philosophy of harmonious living that encompasses the relationship between humans and God (Parhyangan), humans and other humans (Pawongan), and humans and the environment (Palemahan).

In the context of Makepung, the relationship with God is expressed through gratitude for abundant harvests. Purnama (2016:75) highlights the principle of yadnya (sacrifice) as central to maintaining a harmonious relationship with God, manifested through respect for nature as His creation.

The human-to-human connection is evident in how the tradition strengthens social bonds. The Makepung event serves as an interactive space for villagers, whether as participants, spectators, or supporters. Meanwhile, the relationship with the environment is reflected in the community’s love for buffaloes, vital partners in their agrarian lifestyle. Suarka et al. (2012) emphasize that farmers’ care for their buffaloes represents their respect for nature as an essential part of life.

Beyond Tri Hita Karana, Makepung also embodies democratic and cooperative values relevant to modern society. Decisions related to race schedules, rules, and jury roles are made through consensus. Suarka et al. (2012) explain that these decisions reflect collective agreement and cooperation.

On the race track, sportsmanship is the essence of Makepung. Participants compete with a spirit of fairness and camaraderie, while the audience cheers for all competitors, fostering a sense of unity. Even in humorous or unexpected moments, such as a jockey falling or a buffalo straying, the tradition highlights that the values of togetherness and entertainment outweigh the pursuit of victory.

A Cultural Magnet

The Makepung tradition has long been an attraction. Its uniqueness lies in the blend of agrarian traditions and local cultural values. The event embodies harmony between humans, nature, and society through vibrant races accompanied by the sounds of jegog music, enthusiastic spectators, and decorated buffaloes. Suarka et al. (2012) note that every aspect of Makepung, from preparation to execution, represents the relationship between Jembrana’s agrarian society and its cultural heritage.

The Makepung tradition also plays a crucial role in strengthening the cultural identity of Jembrana Regency. It symbolizes the personality of Jembrana’s people, who live in harmony with nature and their community. Purnama (2016:75) asserts that the Tri Hita Karana philosophy embraced in this tradition lies at the core of Bali’s cultural identity.

The Makepung tradition in Jembrana Regency is a symbol of local traditions enriched with philosophical values. Through the harmonious relationships among humans, God, and nature embodied in the Tri Hita Karana concept, Makepung reflects relevant local wisdom. However, the preservation of this tradition requires commitment from all stakeholders.