Digital Platforms for Preserving Silek Minangkabau Oral Traditions in the Era of Second Orality

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has prompted traditional knowledge systems to adapt to contemporary platforms, posing both opportunities and challenges for cultural preservation. This study investigates the digital transformation of Silek Minangkabau, a traditional Indonesian martial art characterized by oral transmission of philosophical wisdom known as pituah. The research aims to explore how digital platforms facilitate the preservation and dissemination of these oral traditions amid the changing dynamics of globalization and media consumption. Anchored in framework of "second orality", the study employs a qualitative ethnographic approach, combining semi-structured interviews with 35 Silek practitioners and observations of online communities, including social media platforms, discussion forums, and video-sharing websites. The findings reveal that digital platforms significantly enhance the accessibility and visibility of Silek Minangkabau, enabling a wider transmission of its cultural values to younger and geographically dispersed audiences. However, the study also uncovers key limitations, particularly the loss of depth and authenticity associated with direct, face-to-face interaction between pandeka (teachers) and students, which is central to the esoteric and spiritual dimensions of the tradition. While digital media serve as effective tools for documentation and knowledge sharing, they fall short in replicating the immersive experiences of traditional oral pedagogy. The study concludes that digitalization acts as a complementary mechanism rather than a substitute for conventional transmission, and emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive integration of technology to ensure the sustainability and integrity of indigenous oral traditions in the digital era. These findings offer critical insights for future developments in digital heritage preservation initiatives.