Hiliamaetaniha Traditional House in Nias Threatened by Extreme Weather, Fadli Zon Promises to Lower Hand

Fadli Zon inaugurated in South Nias. (IST)

NIAS SOUTH - Culture Minister Fadli Zon has ensured that the government will follow up on efforts to preserve the Hiliamaetaniha Village in South Nias Regency, North Sumatra. The main focus is to maintain traditional houses that face the threat of damage due to geographical conditions and extreme weather.

The commitment was conveyed by Fadli when he directly reviewed the Hiliamaetaniha Village, Tuesday (28/7). The visit was made to see the condition of cultural heritage as well as mapping the preservation steps that the government can take.

According to Fadli, the location of the village in the hilly area makes traditional houses at risk of landslides and the impact of extreme weather. Therefore, preservation efforts must be immediately prepared so that the historic building is maintained.

"Through the North Sumatra Cultural Preservation Center, we will see what we can do together with various parties. Most importantly, these traditional houses are still maintained and not damaged, especially in the midst of increasingly extreme weather conditions," said Fadli.

He assessed that the Hiliamaetaniha Village was a strong example of the role of the community in maintaining cultural identity. In the midst of various natural challenges, the community still maintains the existence of traditional houses and traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation.

"This village has an extraordinary cultural wealth. Although it is located in a hilly area with various challenges, customs, cultures, and traditions here are still alive because they are guarded by the community. This is part of the cultural strength that we must continue to care for together," he said.

In addition to traditional houses, Fadli appreciates people who still preserve the tradition of jumping stones, traditional dances, and oral traditions. According to him, preserving culture is not only maintaining historical buildings, but also ensuring that cultural values, knowledge, and practices remain alive in the community.

The North Sumatra Cultural Preservation Agency will identify the form of support that can be provided to maintain the sustainability of the customary village.

Those who accompanied Fadli on the visit included the Special Staff of the Minister for Protocol and Family Affairs, Rachmanda Primayuda, the Director of Building Trust in God Almighty and Indigenous People, Sjamsul Hadi, and the Head of the North Sumatra Cultural Preservation Center, Sukronedi.