Kudji Ratu Traditional Village

Traces of Sabu Raijua Civilization: Exploring the History and Wisdom of Kudji Ratu Traditional Village

Sabu Raijua Regency in East Nusa Tenggara is an archipelago that holds living megalithic historical treasures to this day. Among the many historical sites scattered across Sabu Island, Kudji Ratu Traditional Village stands as one of the most sacred and monumental pillars of cultural identity. As a historical site located on a plateau, this village is not merely an ancient settlement, but a spiritual center and a symbol of clan sovereignty that has endured through various eras.

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Origins and Historical Foundation

Kudji Ratu Traditional Village is believed to have been established centuries ago, rooted in the migration period of the Sabu ancestors known as Rai Hawu. Based on oral narratives (Lodo) passed down through generations, the establishment of this village is closely linked to the structuring of the ancient Sabu society. The name "Kudji Ratu" itself carries a deep meaning; Kudji refers to steadfastness or an elevated place, while Ratu refers to glory or leadership.

Historically, the founding of Kudji Ratu was inseparable from the division of customary territories called Udu. This village became a center for specific clans to perform rituals of respect to ancestors and nature spirits (Deo Ama). During the Dutch colonial era, Kudji Ratu maintained its customary autonomy, even though formal government structures began to be introduced on mainland Sabu.

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Distinct Architecture and Traditional Construction

The main uniqueness of Kudji Ratu Traditional Village lies in its architectural style, which blends cosmic philosophy with natural resilience. The traditional houses here, known as Ammu Hawu, are built in a shape resembling an overturned boat. This shape is not without reason; the Sabu people believe that their ancestors arrived on the island by boat, thus the house is a representation of that sacred vessel.

The construction of houses in Kudji Ratu does not use metal nails. The building structure is supported by very strong teak or forest wood pillars (hadu), which are driven directly into the ground or placed on flat stones. The roofs are made of thick layers of rumbia or lontar palm leaves (Borassus flabellifer), hanging down almost to the ground to protect the inhabitants from the strong winds and scorching sun typical of Sabu Raijua.

In the center of the village, there is a megalithic stone courtyard that functions as an altar for offerings. These large stones are precisely arranged without cement adhesive, serving as silent witnesses to ancient engineering techniques capable of withstanding earthquake tremors for hundreds of years.

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Historical Significance and Important Events

Kudji Ratu plays a vital role as the guardian of the Pehu customary calendar. It is here that customary leaders (Mone Ama) gather to determine planting and harvesting times based on astronomical observations and natural signs. One of the most prominent historical events is the village's role in the Hole ceremony.

The Hole ceremony is a thanksgiving festival for the harvest and a plea for protection for sailors. Kudji Ratu is an important starting point where prayers are chanted before offerings are floated out to sea. Furthermore, during past inter-tribal wars, Kudji Ratu's strategic location at a height made it a natural defense fortress that was difficult for enemies to penetrate, making it a center of protection for the surrounding residents.

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Figures and Customary Social Structure

The continuity of Kudji Ratu Traditional Village is highly dependent on the role of the Mone Ama, the council of customary priests who hold the highest authority in spiritual and customary law matters. The leadership structure here is neatly divided, ranging from Deo Rai (Land Leader) to Pulodo (Tradition Keeper).

Figures from Kudji Ratu are known as keepers of oral traditions who can memorize family genealogies up to tens of generations back. This ability to remember genealogies is crucial in Sabu's history for determining land inheritance rights and social status within the traditional village.

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Religious Meaning and Jingi Tiu Beliefs

Kudji Ratu Traditional Village is the last bastion of the original beliefs of the Sabu people, namely Jingi Tiu. Although the majority of Sabu residents have now embraced Christianity, Jingi Tiu practices are still carried out with great respect in this village. This belief emphasizes the balance between humans, nature, and ancestral spirits.

Every corner of the village is considered to have a "guardian." Therefore, there are various taboos (Pemali) that must be observed by visitors and residents alike, such as the prohibition of wearing footwear in certain areas or the prohibition of cutting down trees around the site without ritual permission. This makes Kudji Ratu an area of ecological and spiritual conservation.

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Preservation Status and Modernization Challenges

Currently, Kudji Ratu Traditional Village has been designated as a cultural heritage site protected by the Sabu Raijua Regency Government and the Cultural Preservation Center. Restoration efforts are ongoing, especially in replacing the lontar roofs which naturally decay after 10-15 years.

However, the preservation of Kudji Ratu faces significant challenges. The decreasing number of traditional house craftsmen and the difficulty in obtaining quality wood materials are major obstacles. Furthermore, the tide of modernization demands adaptation without damaging sacred values. The local government is now promoting Kudji Ratu as an educational historical tourism destination, where tourists can learn about local wisdom without disturbing the rhythm of life of the indigenous community.

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Unique Fact: Ikat Weaving and Symbolism

One thing inseparable from the history of Kudji Ratu is its ikat weaving tradition. The motifs woven by the women in this village contain historical codes and social status. Each line and color on the Ei (women's sarong) or Higi (men's blanket) in Kudji Ratu represents the identity of a specific group or clan that has existed since ancient times. It is said that some motifs can only be woven by noble descendants within this traditional village.

In conclusion, Kudji Ratu Traditional Village is a living monument that records the resilience of the Sabu Raijua people. Through its sturdy architecture, magical rituals, and loyalty to tradition, Kudji Ratu remains a moral and historical compass for the younger generation of NTT amidst the onslaught of globalization.