EXPLORING THE ROLE OF TRADITION: TRADITIONAL RITUALS THAT STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SECURITY IN INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES ON SERAM ISLAND

Abstract Amidst the current wave of modernization, the Nuaulu and Huaulu tribes in Central Maluku Regency and the Bati tribe in East Seram Regency are facing threats to the survival of their local wisdom. This study aims to provide an overview of the role of traditional rituals of the Nuaulu, Huaulu, and Bati tribes in maintaining harmony, welfare, and security, as well as how these rituals are implemented in the form of social security for the three communities. The research method used in this study is qualitative with an ethnographic approach. Data was collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies related to traditions and rituals. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman Interactive Model to ensure that the results obtained were valid and appropriate to the cultural context of the community being studied. The results of the study show that the traditional forms and rituals of the Nuaulu, Huaulu, and Bati tribes are still preserved as part of the community's life. Meanwhile, the Bati tribe's rituals and traditions preserve the forest environment and the various forms of life on Mount Bati. Traditional social security values are still maintained and play a role in the traditions of the Nuaulu, Huaulu, and Bati tribes, namely mutual assistance, sharing, solidarity among fellow tribesmen, and a sense of belonging as members of one community. In addition, there is also the role of the local government (modern social security) in providing social security for indigenous peoples, in the form of access to health services, education, economic opportunities, and social access, so that the Bati people can have a secure life.