Alas Traditional Customary House

Architecture as a Symbol of Identity

Before examining its activities, it's important to understand that the physical structure of the Alas Traditional Customary House itself is a primary educational material. This building generally takes the form of a stilt house, constructed from selected durable woods such as meranti or kapur. Its main uniqueness lies in the intricate carved ornaments called "Pahat" with complex floral and geometric motifs, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and the Creator.

This cultural center maintains a strict yet functional traditional spatial division. The Selo (front area) is used for receiving guests and customary deliberations, reflecting the inclusive nature of the Alas community. Meanwhile, the inner part is designated for domestic affairs. The nail-less structure is a testament to the sophisticated architectural techniques of the ancestors, which are now being studied again by researchers and young architects at this cultural center.

Cultural Activities and Featured Programs

The Alas Traditional Customary House operates various daily and weekly programs designed to revive traditions that are beginning to fade. One of the featured programs is the "Alas Language Class." Given the shift in language use among Generation Z, this center holds regular sessions where customary elders (Tokoh Adat) teach the dialect, proverbs, and communication etiquette (Rebung) that characterize the Alas people.

In addition, there is the "Customary Literacy Week" program, which documents ancient manuscripts and folk tales (hikayat) into digital and printed book formats. This is done to ensure that the intellectual wealth of the Alas Tribe is not lost to time, considering that much of Alas' history was previously passed down only through oral tradition.

Traditional Arts and Performances

As an arts center, the Alas Traditional Customary House serves as the main stage for various spectacular performances:

1. Tari Mesekat: This is the most iconic dance from Southeast Aceh. Unlike Saman from Gayo, Mesekat has a distinct tempo, lyrics, and movements that reflect the agrarian life of the Alas people. At this cultural center, visitors can witness the regular practice sessions of young people honing their agility and teamwork.

2. Tari Tangis Lulo: A performance rich in emotion, usually performed during specific customary ceremonies. This cultural center ensures that the established patterns of this dance are preserved without losing its sacred value.

3. Traditional Music: The beats of the Gendang Alas (Alas drum) and the melodies of the Suling (flute) often echo in this area. There are special workshops for those who wish to learn how to make and play these traditional instruments.

Handicrafts and Creative Economy

This cultural center also functions as an incubator for local artisans. The main focus is on the production of Kain Tenun Alas (Alas woven fabric) and embroidery with distinctive Alas motifs. Housewives from surrounding villages are empowered to produce bags, clothing, and accessories with modified "Pahat" motifs for the modern market.

The "Young Artisan Apprenticeship" program is held to ensure the transfer of technical knowledge from senior artisans to teenagers. The products created here not only serve as economic commodities but also as educational media about the philosophical meanings behind each stitch pattern used in customary ceremonies such as weddings or the reception of distinguished guests.

Education and Community Involvement

The Alas Traditional Customary House upholds the principle that culture must be inclusive. Therefore, they maintain close cooperation with schools in Southeast Aceh through the "Culture Goes to School" program. Students are required to visit this cultural center to learn about the customary law of Kharat and the kinship system of Wali Minul.

The local community is also involved in the management of the area through the concept of a cultural tourism village. Every major decision regarding the development of this center always involves the Majelis Adat Aceh (MAA) (Aceh Customary Council) of Southeast Aceh Regency, ensuring that facility modernization does not violate prevailing customary norms.

Cultural Events and Annual Festivals

Every year, the Alas Traditional Customary House becomes the focal point for the celebration of the Festival Bumi Alas. During this festival, various competitions are held, such as:

• Pacu Kude (Traditional Horse Racing), which is very popular in the highlands of Aceh.
• Culinary Competition for Local Specialties like Manuk Labakh (chicken boiled with special Alas spices) and Gulo Puan.
• A complete simulation of the Alas Traditional Wedding Ceremony, from the proposal stage to the customary feast, aimed at showcasing the intricate social order of the Alas community.

Heritage Preservation and Strategic Role

This cultural center plays a vital role in the conservation of intangible cultural heritage. Through independent research, they strive to register various cultural elements of Alas into the national Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTb) list. They also act as gatekeepers against external cultural influences that do not align with local values, while remaining open to positive cross-cultural collaborations.

In the context of regional development, the Alas Traditional Customary House is a catalyst for tourism in Southeast Aceh. Its existence provides an educational tourism alternative alongside the natural tourism of Gunung Leuser National Park. With this center, tourists not only enjoy the natural beauty but also return with a deep understanding of the people who inhabit the valley.

Conclusion: The Future of the Alas Customary House

Moving forward, the Alas Traditional Customary House is committed to integrating technology into cultural preservation. Plans for the development of a virtual museum and digital gallery are underway to ensure that younger generations exposed to technology remain connected to their cultural roots.

Through synergy between the local government, customary leaders, and the younger generation, the Alas Traditional Customary House will continue to stand not just as a monument of the past, but as a dynamic engine of civilization. It is the last bastion ensuring that the identity of the Alas Tribe will continue to fly high amidst the currents of globalization, ensuring that "Bumi Metuah" retains its irreplaceable soul and character.