Local wisdom for mutual Cooperation in Indonesia: An etnographic investigation on value of Marsiadapari tradition, Sianjur Mula-Mula Sub-District, Samosir Regency, North Sumatera Province

Abstract

Mutual cooperation is understood as a culture that conveys ethical values and crucially needs to be preserved as it promotes a sense of togetherness and volunteerism. These virtuous values have been instilled in the Marsiapadari tradition. The people in Sianjur Mula-Mula District have always tried to preserve and maintain this tradition for generations. This traditional practice has been perceived not merely as the obligation to lend hands to others but to show the virtue of togetherness and sincerity they would gain when they try to wield this traditional practice. This research was conducted using a case study model on local culture called traditions which signify a philosophical meaning of mutual cooperation. The subject of this research was the people of Sianjur Mula-Mula District. This study aimed to describe the pattern of social life in Sianjur Mula-Mula District, especially in the Marsiadapari tradition. Thus, data collection was obtained by employing an ethnographic study. The concept of mutual cooperation could also be interpreted as community empowerment because it has shown social capital. Marsiadapari culture could be viewed from several aspects of the life of the Batak Toba ethnicity, for instance, birth ceremonies, marriages, transition to adolescence, and death, livelihood systems such as farming, and social services such as building houses, village cleaning, and school/educational institution needs. Traditions that develop in the community must be conserved as a source of local wisdom that fosters a sense of togetherness in Indonesian society.