Mejan is one of the ancestral relics of the Pakpak Bharat community in North Sumatra. The statue, estimated to be thousands of years old, is unique and has not been found in other regions, making it a prideful identity for the people of Pakpak Bharat.
This was stated by the head of the UGM archaeological team, Dr. Mimi Savitri, while presenting the results of the survey and excavation team in Pakpak Bharat to all stakeholders in Pakpak Bharat Regency, North Sumatra, on Monday (Dec. 18).
In her statement to reporters on Thursday (Dec. 28), she explained that the excavation activities aimed to understand the knowledge of past life in the Pakpak community.
Mejan serves as a marker, center, or source of life for the Pakpak people, revealing aspects of their social, economic, cultural, ritual, and gender equality in ancient times.
“One important thing in studying the lives of Pakpak Bharat ancestors through Mejan is how we can reflect on the international and peace-loving lives of the ancestors in the present and future,” she said.
The Secretary of Pakpak Bharat, Jalan Berutu, who attended on behalf of the regent, expressed appreciation to the Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM.
He viewed this archaeological research collaboration as a significant effort to preserve the cultural heritage of Pakpak Bharat.
“This dissemination is essential for determining the next development strategy for Pakpak Bharat to improve the community’s welfare,” Berutu said.
Author: Gusti Grehenson