The The Impact of the Sumba Nua Ritual of the Kanganara Indigenous Community on Natural Conservation Efforts

Authors

  • Puplius Meinrad Buru Institut Filsafat dan Teknologi Kreatif Ledalero
  • Charles Lamaberaf Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia
  • Kristianto Ratu Marius Naben Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia
  • Yosep Uskono Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia
  • Gregoriany Cesilia Krisphina Dessy Dasilva Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25077/jantro.v28.n1.p108-118.2026

Abstract

This article examines the positive impacts of the Sumba Nua ritual practiced by the Kanganara indigenous community of Detukeli, Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, on environmental conservation. Rooted in the belief that human existence is sustained by nature, the ritual underscores a reciprocal obligation to protect the environment for survival. The study addresses four key issues: the ritual’s direct effects on conservation practices, its ceremonial procedures, its cultural significance for the Kanganara people, and the community’s strategies for ecological preservation inspired by its values. Using a phenomenological approach, the research highlights the community’s lived experiences and perspectives. Findings show that the Sumba Nua ritual plays a crucial role in maintaining environmental integrity. Performed annually, it reinforces harmonious relationships with ancestors, nature, and society. Its ecological significance lies in promoting custodianship of the environment, an ethic of care, and sustained efforts to preserve natural balance, ensuring cultural and ecological continuity.

Author Biographies

Puplius Meinrad Buru, Institut Filsafat dan Teknologi Kreatif Ledalero

Puplius Meinrad Buru is a lecturer in Contextual Theology at the Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK Ledalero). His academic interests lie in the interdisciplinary engagement between faith and culture, with a particular focus on contextual theology, pastoral practices rooted in local traditions, cultural studies, and socio-political issues affecting grassroots communities. Through his research and publications, he aims to develop grounded and socially engaged theological reflections that contribute to justice-oriented social transformation.

Charles Lamaberaf, Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia

Charles Lamaberaf is a lecturer in Human and Cultural Studies at the Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK Ledalero). His scholarly work explores the intersections of humanity, culture, and social change, with research interests that include indigenous knowledge systems, local wisdom, cultural identity, and contemporary socio-cultural dynamics in Indonesia. Through teaching and research, he is committed to promoting a deeper understanding of human experiences within their cultural contexts and advancing culturally informed approaches to social development.

Kristianto Ratu Marius Naben, Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia

Kristianto Ratu Marius Naben is a lecturer in Social Sciences and Human Resource Development at the Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK Ledalero). His expertise focuses on social issues, community development, and strengthening human resource capacities within diverse local contexts. His research interests include social development, community dynamics, public policy, and empowerment strategies. Through his teaching, research, and community engagement, he is committed to promoting inclusive, competitive, and socially just community development.

Yosep Uskono, Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia

Yosep Uskono is a practitioner at the Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) of the Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK Ledalero). His engagement in research and community empowerment is grounded in strong academic interests in philosophy and political sociology. He actively develops critical studies on social dynamics, power relations, and community issues at both local and national levels. Through his research initiatives and community-based programs, he is committed to fostering reflective thinking, social dialogue, and transformative efforts toward a more just and sustainable society.

Gregoriany Cesilia Krisphina Dessy Dasilva, Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology, Indonesia

Gregoriany Cesilia Krisphina Dessy Dasilva is a lecturer in Entrepreneurship at the Ledalero Institute of Philosophy and Creative Technology (IFTK Ledalero). Her academic interests focus on traditional entrepreneurship, local resource potential, and production management within the context of community economic empowerment. She actively conducts research on local wisdom–based business models and management strategies that enhance the added value of community products. Through her teaching, research, and community engagement activities, she is committed to promoting sustainable entrepreneurial practices that empower local communities and strengthen regional economic development.

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Published

2026-06-28

How to Cite

Buru, P. M., Lamaberaf, C., Naben, K. R. M., Uskono, Y., & Dasilva, G. C. K. D. (2026). The The Impact of the Sumba Nua Ritual of the Kanganara Indigenous Community on Natural Conservation Efforts. Jurnal Antropologi: Isu-Isu Sosial Budaya, 28(1), 108–118. https://doi.org/10.25077/jantro.v28.n1.p108-118.2026

Issue

Vol. 28 No. 1 (2026): June

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Puplius Meinrad Buru, Charles Lamaberaf, Kristianto Ratu Marius Naben, Yosep Uskono, Gregoriany Cesilia Krisphina Dessy Dasilva

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