Monduu Tudu Tradition in the Tolaki Community in Konawe District, Konawe Regency (2008-2023)

Abstract: This article aims to describe and analyze the implementation of the Monduutudu tradition in the Tolaki community in Konawe District, Konawe Regency, focusing on its background, process, changes, and the values embedded in the tradition. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a historical research method consisting of three main stages: heuristics (source collection), verification (source criticism), and historiography (writing history). Data were collected through observation and interviews with local community leaders and residents from February to March 2024. The results show that: 1) The Monduutudu tradition emerged as an effort by the Tolaki community to maintain family integrity, build mutual agreements, and initiate marriage in accordance with inherited customs; 2) The process begins with Monggolupe, where the male prospective groom sends a representative to propose to the female family. If accepted, the official Monduutudu ceremony is held with the presence of both families, led by local customary and governmental leaders; 3) Changes in the implementation of the Monduutudu tradition are evident in the replacement of cattle and gong with a sum of Rp. 250,000 to simplify the process; 4) The tradition teaches values such as religiosity, honesty, hard work, curiosity, sociability/communication, and responsibility. This article also discusses how these changes reflect the social and cultural dynamics amid modernization.