While we are still busy analyzing the pandemic, they already have the term for the pandemic that is used for generations to understand what we are facingJakarta (ANTARA) - International Day of the World's Indigenous People 2021 marked the resilience of indigenous people to face pandemics through knowledge passed down through generations, according to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology.
"While we are still busy analyzing the pandemic, they already have the term for the pandemic that is used for generations to understand what we are facing," Director General of Culture Hilmar Farid stated during the virtual commemoration of International Day of the World's Indigenous People here on Monday.
In addition, Farid highlighted how indigenous communities had strong social ties with the authorities that were respected, wherein they had a solid common understanding. It is certainly different from urban social conditions with stronger individual values, he pointed out.
He believes that the modern social pattern existing today was ill-prepared to face the pandemic situation.
Meanwhile, he noted that indigenous people, with generational heritage, have had in place mechanisms and strategies to deal with it, for instance, with the knowledge that ensures food security and traditional medicine.
"In the current terminology, it refers to resilience, and I think it is important that we document the (indigenous people’s) knowledge and practices that are emerging in different places," he emphasized.
On the occasion, Secretary General of the Alliance of Indigenous Peoples of the Archipelago (AMAN) Rukka Sombolinggi called World's Indigenous Day, observed every August 9, as a day dedicated to indigenous people and their struggles to safeguard earth for centuries.
According to Sombolinggi, the climate and fresh air that can be enjoyed today cannot be separated from the contribution of indigenous people, such as in Indonesia, where they protect the surrounding natural areas for the sake of other human beings.
She also noted how indigenous areas become one of the places with sturdiness against the pandemic and all its impacts.
"This all shows that a strong, wholesome culture and practices, including deliberations and consensus, guarantee the sustainability and existence of earth and humanity," she affirmed.
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Translator: Prisca V, Kenzu T
Editor: Sri Haryati
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