Wisdom and Sustainability: Exploring Financial and Operational Management Behind the Glamour of Jaran Kencak

This study aims to uncover the values of local wisdom and examine the financial system and operational management practices within the traditional art of Jaran Kencak in Lumajang Regency. This study uses a qualitative approach. The selected informants were 15 people consisting of art communities, academics, government representatives, and the general public. The results of the study show that Jaran Kencak embodies local values such as mutual cooperation (gotong royong), social harmony, spirituality, sincerity, and respect. These values are reflected not only in the performances but also in the management of activities, from opening rituals, member training, horse care, to morning and evening shows. Operational management is community-based and functions effectively, although it has not yet been fully standardized. Meanwhile, the financial system is managed through member contributions, donations from patrons, and voluntary support, with transparency upheld through deliberation and trust. This study affirms that Jaran Kencak holds significant potential as a cultural asset that supports local economic empowerment and tourism rooted in local wisdom. Some of the challenges experienced are in the form of limited funds. In addition, there are managerial challenges, including less-trained personnel and the absence of a formal organizational structure. In this case, the involvement of several parties is needed to deal with the problem for the sustainability of Jaran Kencak in the midst of the times.