Obi Island Preserves Ancestral Culture Through Ngibi Traditional Dance

In the quiet coastal village of Soligi on Obi Island, the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs herald the performance of the Ngibi traditional dance. This ancestral art form, brought by the Buton people across the seas, has deeply rooted itself in the cultural fabric of Obi Island.

The Ngibi dance is rich with philosophical significance. Each movement conveys gratitude for the breath of life and embodies the highest respect for women as nurturers. Imam La Puasa, a traditional leader in Soligi Village, explained that every step and phase of the Ngibi performance carries moral lessons, life values, and the historical journey of the Buton community, passed down through generations.

"Ngibi is not just entertainment. It contains advice, history, and identity inherited from our ancestors. Therefore, this tradition must be preserved so that our children and grandchildren do not forget their origins," said La Puasa. Originally performed as an expression of gratitude after a bountiful harvest, the dance has evolved to become a highlight of various social events.

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Ngibi is not just entertainment. It contains advice, history, and identity inherited from our ancestors. Therefore, this tradition must be preserved so that our children and grandchildren do not forget their origins.

Performances of the Ngibi dance are now a regular feature, especially after the Eid al-Adha holiday. Before the dance commences, the village imam recites prayers, signifying the deep connection between the Ngibi tradition and the Islamic faith embraced by the community. The traditional leader then opens the performance with a display of pencak silat, symbolically paving the way for the younger generation.

To ensure the tradition's survival, children are not merely spectators but active participants. Students from elementary to high school levels are involved in the Ngibi Arts Performance. "Alhamdulillah, after the performance, the children's interest has grown. Before, they only practiced but did not get to perform," said Dance Teacher Musniati Mahulette. "The Ngibi Arts Performance event from Harita provides a platform to showcase what they practice in the studio." Desmita Musli, a 16-year-old student, shared her enthusiasm for learning the Cungka dance, a prelude to Ngibi, expressing increased confidence in performing her regional dance and a commitment to continue practicing.

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Alhamdulillah, after the performance, the children's interest has grown. Before, they only practiced but did not get to perform. The Ngibi Arts Performance event from Harita provides a platform to showcase what they practice in the studio.