Safeguarding Mentawai Indigenous Healing Through Indigenous Tourism: A Strategic Framework for Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development

Myrza Rahmanita; Rina Suprina; Rahmat Ingkadijaya; I Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani; Saptarining Wulan

Article Details

Safeguarding Mentawai Indigenous Healing Through Indigenous Tourism: A Strategic Framework for Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development

Authors:

Myrza Rahmanita | Rina Suprina | Rahmat Ingkadijaya | I Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani | Saptarining Wulan

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 29, pp.180-192

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

3/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515156

pISSN:

2518-668X

Keywords:

Abstract:

 The Mentawai Archipelago in Indonesia is renowned for indigenous healing traditions led by the Sikerei, spiritual healers embodying ancestral knowledge, ecological stewardship, and community well-being. These intangible cultural heritage practices face increasing threats from modernization, formal medical services, and waning interest among younger generations. This study aims to develop a strategic framework that safeguards Mentawai healing through indigenous tourism by positioning the Sikerei as cultural leaders to promote both preservation and sustainable development. Using an exploratory-descriptive qualitative method, primary data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observation involving 12 active Sikerei, supplemented by secondary sources. Triangulation was applied to cross-verify data, enhancing validity and providing a comprehensive understanding of the healing system’s spiritual, ritual, social, and ecological dimensions. Findings reveal the holistic interconnectedness of Mentawai healing, emphasizing community leadership, cultural authenticity, youth engagement, and economic sustainability, while preventing commodification of sacred practices. Drawing on successful global indigenous tourism models, the proposed framework fosters cultural continuity, community empowerment, and inclusive economic benefits. Policy recommendations include formal recognition of Sikerei, protection of sacred spaces, educational programs for knowledge transmission, and long-term monitoring mechanisms. This study contributes to understanding how indigenous tourism can effectively preserve intangible cultural heritage while supporting socioeconomic development, offering a replicable model for indigenous communities balancing cultural integrity and economic opportunity amid modernization.

Article Details

Safeguarding Mentawai Indigenous Healing Through Indigenous Tourism: A Strategic Framework for Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development

Authors:

Myrza Rahmanita | Rina Suprina | Rahmat Ingkadijaya | I Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani | Saptarining Wulan

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 29, pp.180-192

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

3/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515156

pISSN:

2518-668X

indigenous healing

indigenous tourism

cultural preservation

sustainable development

Mentawai

Issues

Article Details

Safeguarding Mentawai Indigenous Healing Through Indigenous Tourism: A Strategic Framework for Cultural Preservation and Sustainable Development

Authors: Myrza Rahmanita | Rina Suprina | Rahmat Ingkadijaya | I Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani | Saptarining Wulan

Publisher: KnE Social Sciences

Journal: KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 29, pp.180-192

Document Type: Article

Publication Date: 3/2025

Document Language: English

Document ID (Org No.): 2001515156

pISSN: 2518-668X

indigenous healing

indigenous tourism

cultural preservation

sustainable development

Mentawai

Issues

Authors:

Myrza Rahmanita | Rina Suprina | Rahmat Ingkadijaya | I Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani | Saptarining Wulan

Publisher:

KnE Social Sciences

Journal:

KnE Social Sciences Vol.10 Issue 29, pp.180-192

Document Type:

Article

Publication Date:

3/2025

Document Language:

English

Document ID (Org No.):

2001515156

pISSN:

2518-668X