The UGM Community Service Program (KKN-PPM UGM) student team conducted a regional cultural preservation program in Klis Village, Southwest Maluku Regency, Maluku Province.
This program culminated in the Riuk Raya Moa Arts and Cultural Festival, held on Saturday (Jan. 25) at Gerdarsi Beach. The festival was the highlight of a series of cultural appreciation events aimed at promoting local arts.
Azzan Nasrullah, KKN-PPM UGM coordinator, explained that the festival aimed to preserve the culture and customs of Moa Island, particularly in Klis and Nyama. In addition to protecting the culture, the festival aimed to introduce Moa Island to a broader audience and attract tourists.
“This festival is not just for the KKN-PPM UGM students but for the people of Klis and Nyama. We are proud and happy to be part of this grand event,” Nasrullah stated in a press release on Thursday (Feb. 6).
He emphasized Moa Island’s vast potential, especially in Klis and Nyama, from food to local customs.
The event included various activities such as traditional dance performances by elders and students, MSME exhibitions, poetry readings, storytelling, song performances, and a drawing contest.
“All these programs have been a valuable experience for UGM participants and the people of Moa Island. The unique and distinctive customs and traditions must be preserved indefinitely,” he added.
Fadli Kasim, the field supervisor for KKN-PPM MA008, also expressed pride in the festival’s success. He appreciated the involvement of all community elements, from the people of Moa Island to the local government, in making the Riuk Raya Moa Festival successful.
“The KKN-PPM students have become emotionally connected with the community, showing deep care for local wisdom. Alhamdulillah,” he said.
Agustinus L. Kilikily, Deputy Regent of Southwest Maluku, commended the students for helping preserve the region’s arts and culture while enhancing local human resources.
He noted that the Riuk Raya Moa Festival, part of the team program, is a medium for exploring and promoting cultural values rich in local wisdom.
“Indonesia is a country of diverse cultures, inherited from our ancestors, but our younger generation often neglects this heritage. It’s essential to raise awareness of the importance of cultural preservation,” Kilikily said.
He hoped that the festival would inspire the government and the community to work together to preserve the culture of Southwest Maluku.
He also suggested that the festival become an official and continuous agenda.
“The Education and Culture Department should act as a facilitator in preserving culture and traditions to prevent them from disappearing,” he added.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya