INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Indonesia is widely known for its rich cultural diversity and local traditions that reflect the identity and values of its people. With hundreds of ethnic groups and cultural backgrounds, each region in Indonesia has its own unique traditions that have been preserved for many generations. These traditions are often referred to as local wisdom because they represent the knowledge, beliefs, and cultural practices that guide the life of the community (Koentjaraningrat, 2009). Local wisdom plays an important role in maintaining cultural identity and strengthening the relationship between people and their cultural heritage.

One example of local wisdom that can be found in the Tidore community is Salai Jin. This tradition is closely related to the beliefs and cultural heritage of the people of Tidore and has been known by the community for a long time. In general, Salai Jin is associated with traditional beliefs that involve spiritual elements and the interaction between humans and supernatural beings (Rakhmat & Najmuddin, 2022). Because of this belief, the tradition is often considered sacred and meaningful by some members of the community.

As part of the local wisdom of Tidore, Salai Jin reflects the strong connection between culture, belief, and social traditions. For many people in Tidore, this tradition is not only a cultural practice but also a symbol of their cultural identity. It shows how traditional beliefs and cultural values continue to exist and influence the lives of the community even in the modern era.

However, as society continues to develop and modern influences become stronger, traditional practices such as Salai Jin sometimes face challenges in being preserved. Some younger generations may not fully understand the meaning or significance of this tradition. Therefore, studying and documenting local traditions is important in order to increase awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage (Geertz, 1973).

Therefore, this e-portfolio aims to introduce and discuss Salai Jin as one of the forms of local wisdom in the Tidore community. This project explains the meaning of Salai Jin, its cultural background, and its role in the life of the community. Through this e-portfolio, readers are expected to gain a better understanding of the cultural significance of Salai Jin and the importance of preserving local traditions as part of Indonesia’s cultural diversity.