Banten eyes more tourists with Baduy Festival

BANTEN. Banten is set to attract domestic and foreign tourists by hosting the Baduy Festival on Oct. 28-30.

Slated to take place in Kanekes village, Lebak regency, this is the first time the region has held such an event to support the government's effort to promote new tourism destinations outside of Bali.

In addition to art and cultural performances, the festival will also feature a handicraft exhibition and weaving record-breaking attempt.

"Banten is not only blessed with breathtaking landscapes, but also unique culture," said festival coordinator Arman Bin Kaipin as quoted by tempo.co. "One of them is the Baduy ethnic tribe that lives on the hills that are part of Kendeng mountains at 600 meters above sea level, who called themselves urang Kanekes [the people of Kanekes]."

The Kanekes community comprises Tangtu, or Kanekes Dalam (Baduy Dalam), and Panamping, who live in three villages, namely Cikertawana, Cikeusik and Cibeo. The people of Tangtu are known to be the strongest in holding on to their traditional culture. That is why, up until now, they don't use electronic devices, footwear or vehicles for transportation. They even weave their own clothes. "Kanekes people still subscribe to the traditional belief system of Sunda Wiwitan, with a Pu'un as their leader, who is also considered to be a community figure," said Arman.

Meanwhile, Panamping people reside in Cibeo village, also known as Kanekes Luar or Baduy Luar. They are familiar with technology and electronic devices as well as modern clothing. "People of this community usually wear a black headband."

In addition to farming, the people of Kanekes Luar also make weaved souvenirs for money. "This is what we will highlight in the Baduy Festival," said Arman.