Preserving Bali's Culture Amid Economic Challenges

TheIndonesia.co - In Bali, the canang sari, a traditional offering of flowers and other sacred items, holds immense cultural significance. Every Hindu family in Bali prepares canang sari as a daily act of devotion, placing it in front of temples, shrines, and even in the home.

This offering is an essential part of daily life in Bali, representing harmony with nature and the divine. The practice is deeply ingrained in Balinese culture, where it serves not just as a religious symbol but also as an expression of the island's rich spiritual heritage.

According to Antara News Agency, Governor Wayan Koster, recognizing the importance of these traditions, has raised an important issue regarding how Bali’s economy and cultural practices intersect with the national statistical system. In a recent statement, Koster asked the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) to reconsider including canang sari in the list of commodities that are used to calculate inflation.

He emphasized that the materials used to make canang sari—such as the janur (green coconut leaves), flowers, and bananas—should be considered separately in the calculation of inflation, as they are not just ritualistic items but are closely linked to Bali's agricultural practices and cultural identity.

Koster explained that canang sari and related ceremonial offerings should not be classified as a factor in inflation because they are part of Bali’s intangible cultural heritage, with intrinsic spiritual value beyond their economic cost. Instead, he proposed that the materials that make up these offerings, such as janur, flowers, and bananas, be considered commodities in the inflation calculation, as these are agricultural products with a direct economic impact.

The Governor's request reflects a broader effort to ensure that Bali's traditional practices are recognized within the framework of the island’s evolving economy. Bali is currently undergoing an economic transformation through its Kerthi Bali concept, which focuses on sustainable practices in organic agriculture, marine and fisheries industries, as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs). In this context, understanding the economic role of traditional offerings like canang sari becomes part of a larger conversation about balancing cultural preservation with economic development.

 

Additionally, Governor Koster has proposed a Cultural Census of Bali, to be conducted in the Desa Adat (traditional villages) across the island. This census aims to preserve and protect Bali's unique cultural identity, documenting the richness and diversity of its traditions. The census will collect detailed data about Bali’s population, particularly the krama Bali (the Balinese people), including demographic information such as education levels and family structure.

One intriguing aspect of the census will be the documentation of the traditional naming system in Bali. Children are given specific names based on their birth order, such as Wayan, Putu, and Gede for the firstborn; Made, Nengah, and Kadek for the second; Komang and Nyoman for the third; and Ketut for the fourth. This system not only reflects Bali’s cultural practices but also provides insight into the island's social structure and traditions.

Governor Koster believes that this census will be a vital tool for safeguarding Bali's culture, and the data will be used as an asset to support future development while preserving the island’s unique heritage. He has called for collaboration with BPS Bali to carry out the census, with a focus on ensuring that cultural data is gathered in a comprehensive and organized manner.

For the newly appointed head of BPS Bali, Agus Gede Hendrayana Hermawan, this initiative is a source of pride. He expressed gratitude to Governor Koster for prioritizing the use of data in policymaking and development planning. By using precise, culturally informed data, Koster aims to create a development framework that respects Bali’s traditions while addressing modern economic challenges.

This conversation about cultural offerings, economic data, and the preservation of traditions underscores Bali's unique position in Indonesia—where spirituality, culture, and economy are intricately linked. Governor Koster’s leadership is a reminder that while modernization is essential, it must never come at the cost of the traditions that make Bali a truly unique and cherished part of Indonesia.