CAGAR BUDAYA RUMAH ADAT SOURAJA SEBAGAI IDENTITAS KULTURAL MASYARAKAT LERE

Abstract

Abstrak: Rumah Adat Souraja merupakan simbol penting identitas kultural masyarakat Lere yang merefleksikan nilai historis, sosial, dan filosofi masyarakat Kaili. Namun, perubahan sosial akibat modernisasi memengaruhi tingkat keterlibatan generasi muda sehingga keberlanjutan fungsi dan makna budayanya menghadapi tantangan. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis fungsi, makna simbolik arsitektur, faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi keberlanjutan, serta persepsi dan partisipasi masyarakat terhadap pelestarian Souraja. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif melalui observasi, wawancara mendalam menggunakan teknik snowball sampling, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Souraja berfungsi sebagai ruang sosial, pusat kegiatan adat, serta media pewarisan nilai budaya. Makna simbolik tercermin melalui elemen arsitektur yang merepresentasikan struktur sosial dan pandangan hidup masyarakat Kaili. Keberlanjutan Souraja dipengaruhi oleh dukungan pemerintah, peran keluarga pewaris, partisipasi masyarakat, dan keterlibatan generasi muda melalui kegiatan budaya. Masyarakat memiliki persepsi positif dan keterlibatan sukarela dalam menjaga Souraja meskipun dihadapkan pada arus modernisasi. Penelitian ini menegaskan bahwa Souraja tetap menjadi penanda identitas kultural masyarakat Lere dan memerlukan strategi pelestarian yang adaptif terhadap perubahan sosial.

Abstract:  The Souraja Traditional House serves as a key cultural symbol of the Lere community, embodying the historical, social, and philosophical values of the Kaili people. However, social changes driven by modernization have reduced the engagement of younger generations, raising concerns about the continuity of its cultural functions and meanings. This study aims to examine the functions of Souraja, the symbolic meanings embedded in its architectural elements, the factors influencing its sustainability, and the community’s perceptions and participation in preservation efforts. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews using snowball sampling, and documentation. The findings reveal that Souraja functions as a social hub, a venue for traditional ceremonies, and a medium for intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge. Its symbolic meanings are reflected in architectural features that represent social structure and philosophical values of the Kaili community. The sustainability of Souraja is shaped by governmental support, the commitment of hereditary families, community participation, and youth involvement through cultural activities. Despite challenges posed by modernization, the Lere community maintains positive perceptions and voluntary participation in preserving Souraja. Overall, Souraja continues to serve as a vital marker of cultural identity for the Lere community and requires adaptive preservation strategies responsive to contemporary social changes.