Enchanting Cultures

Regional cultures are the source of national culture. Therefore, any measures to preserve and improve the regional cultures should be initiated from the supporting elements.

As the logical consequences of Aceh’s strategic location in Malaka Straits, inter-relations with foreign people and cultures are unavoidable. When Islam has been fully accepted in Acehnese life, however, the openness to foreign elements are selective and strictly conditioned by one prerequisite: “provided they (the foreign elements) are not in contradiction with the Devine laws and codes of Islam applicable to human life”. This is the basic foundation of Acehnese moral obligation and at the same time becomes the moral objectives in the development efforts of this region.

Folktales

Folktales have become parts of the Acehnese life. They play important roles in preserving the regional languages and literatures, and are frequently reflected in fine arts and dances. In general, Acehnese folktales are the manifestation of the teachings of Islam, such as in “Hikayat Perang Sabih”, “Hikayat Aceh Barulkarim”, “Hikayat Tungku Malam”. Themes and messages pertaining to character buildings and good conducts can be easily absorbed by Acehnese people through folktales and stories. Therefore, they should be well kept and studied at all times.

There are about 80 folktales in the local languages of Aceh, Gayo, Jamee, Tamiang, and Simeuleu. People of all ages are fond of the stories as told by story tellers. Unfortunately, the role of the story tellers is weakening as the result of the influx of radio, television and other electronic audio visual media. It does not mean, however, that folktales themselves are automatically disappearing following the incoming of modern means of communications.

They still survive and remain popular among the people. Stories originated from pre-Islam period when shaman was the central figure in the society, are still recited and attractive to many listeners. Examples: “Adoman”, a personification of ape similar to “Anoman” in the Indian story “Rama and Shinta”; “Periedende” or human-like tiger; “Imo” and “Sihitam Pekat” (Gayo folktale) on the importance of brotherhood and willingness to sacrifice; “Siterong Bungkuk”, on the obligation to honour parents,etc.

When Islam was accepted fully as the only religion, there had been, and still are nowadays, stories on moral obligations and conducts among others:”Paya Terbang”, “Sepatah Kata Sekati Emas”, “Putri Parakisan”,etc.