People and Society

Before tsunami, 4.2 millions people live in aceh. After tsunami, Aceh population comes around 4.031.589 people.

In the course of Aceh history, interactions with foreigners, such as: Indians, Chinese, Arabs and European, have brought about lasting influences not only upon its culture but also on the physical appearances of the people. European type people, for example, are found in West Aceh, particularly in Lamno. Indian-type faces are common along the coasts, while Chinese are dominant in the north coasts.

The local language used in one area or by an ethnic group is frequently different from the others. But the most common one is Aceh language, the “lingua franca”. Other local languages are Aneuk Jame, Alas, Tamiang, Siumeule, and Klut. The language of the Gayo ethnic group bears no resemblance with other languages. Aceh has adopted and modified the Arabic writing system known as”Melayu Arabic”.

Almost all (over 97%) of Aceh people are devoted Moslems. Islam has been deeply rooted in their daily life as can be seen in the dress fashion of Aceh women. The influences of Islam are also clearly reflected in wedding ceremonies, inheritance law,etc. and Al Quran remains the principal reference. There are about 3,000 mosques, and more than 7,000 “meunasah” and “ mushalla” (Smaller size houses or place of worship). 3% of the people are Christians, Budhists, etc. However, they are all outsiders.

Before World War II, male youngsters were traditionally separated from female. Groups were formed on the basis of sex. They also played games separately. This situation has strongly affected Aceh cultures and arts as evidenced in one of the most popular dances called “seudati”. This dance used to be performed either by male or female dancers. The tempo, rhythms, and body movements are exclusively Aceh and definitely different from the traditional or local dances in any other areas of Indonesia. It is not unlikely that the dance has been strongly influenced by Turkish or Middle East dances.

The clothes put on by Aceh women are unusual ”black trousers” and “tukok”, a short-sleeve shirt. Unfortunately, this traditional dress is now rarely seen in public, except in certain ceremonial events. The oldest non-religious educational institute equivalent to university is Syiah Kuala, established on 2^ndSeptember 1979.