Bali Series - Eps. 2 | Subak, Aspek Sosial dan Budaya Dalam Sistem Irigasi

Summary

The video explores the unique and sustainable Subak irrigation system of Bali, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural and environmental significance. Subak, a community-based organization, manages water distribution for rice fields through cooperative efforts rooted in the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, balancing social, religious, and environmental aspects. The system, shaped by both traditional practices and government support, ensures efficient water distribution, enhancing agricultural productivity. It also emphasizes the spiritual connection between Bali’s people, their land, and their temples, making Subak a vital part of the island's cultural heritage and environmental preservation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Subak is a traditional community organization in Bali that manages the irrigation system for rice fields, a practice recognized by UNESCO.
• 🌾 The Subak system has been in place for centuries and applies socio-religious principles based on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which focuses on harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.
• 💧 Water distribution in Bali's rice fields is managed through deliberations between Subak members, ensuring fair and equitable access to water.
• 🙏 The Subak system emphasizes mutual cooperation, where local farmers work together to maintain irrigation channels and resolve any issues related to water flow.
• 🌍 Subak's sustainability has allowed it to survive for over a century, proving the success of its collaborative and community-driven approach.
• 🔧 Government support, through the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, has improved Subak's infrastructure, ensuring culturally and environmentally friendly water distribution.
• 🚰 Thanks to modern improvements, irrigation channels are now more efficient, and farmers are able to harvest rice three times a year instead of just twice.
• 🏞 Subak's cultural and spiritual significance is deeply tied to the belief that water sources in Bali are gifts from God, to be preserved as sacred places.
• 🌿 The Balinese believe that the proper management of Subak not only ensures agricultural success but also contributes to maintaining the balance between humanity, nature, and spirituality.
• 🤝 Subak's integration of cultural, environmental, and spiritual values showcases a unique example of how cultural heritage can thrive alongside modern infrastructure.

Q & A

What is Subak, and why is it famous in Bali?

Subak is a community organization in Bali that regulates the irrigation system for rice fields. It is famous for its sustainability and effectiveness, having been recognized by UNESCO as a vital part of Balinese heritage.

How does the Subak system function?

The Subak system operates through a collection of farmer groups that regulate water distribution for rice fields. Decisions about water management are made through deliberations among Subak members, ensuring fair and efficient water distribution.

What makes the Subak system unique compared to other irrigation systems?

The Subak system is unique due to its socio-religious principles, based on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes balance between humans, nature, and the divine. This philosophy ensures cooperation, harmony, and sustainability in the community's irrigation practices.

How does the Tri Hita Karana philosophy influence Subak's operation?

The Tri Hita Karana philosophy teaches that humans must maintain a harmonious relationship with God, other humans, and nature. This principle is embedded in Subak's practices, ensuring that irrigation is managed in a way that respects both cultural traditions and environmental sustainability.

What is Temuku, and how does it relate to water distribution in Subak?

Temuku refers to the fair and even distribution of water among rice fields in Bali. It is a system developed by Subak members to ensure that all farmers receive equal access to water, with no one water source taking precedence over another.

How does the Balinese community cooperate in maintaining the Subak system?

The Balinese community works together through mutual cooperation in maintaining the Subak system. They repair irrigation channels and solve problems related to water distribution collectively, ensuring the system's sustainability over generations.

What role does the government play in supporting the Subak system?

The government, through the Directorate General of Water Resources, supports the Subak system by improving water distribution infrastructure. These improvements help maintain a balance between cultural traditions and modern needs, ensuring that Bali’s Subak remains sustainable.

How has the improvement of irrigation channels impacted the rice harvest in Bali?

Improved irrigation channels, supported by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, have allowed for more efficient water distribution. As a result, the frequency of rice harvests has increased from twice to three times per year.

What is the significance of water sources in Bali’s Subak system?

Water sources in Bali are considered sacred, with the belief that they are gifts from God. These sources are carefully managed within the Subak system for agricultural and temple needs, preserving the harmony between nature, culture, and spirituality.

Why is it important to preserve the Subak system?

The preservation of the Subak system is crucial because it not only sustains Bali’s agricultural practices but also preserves the cultural and spiritual values that are deeply embedded in Balinese society. It ensures a balanced relationship between humans, nature, and the divine.