The Practices of Berdikir and Berbadak as Cultural Heritage among Kedayan Ethnic Marriages in Lawas, Sarawak

This study examines the berdikir and berbadak ceremony as a cultural heritage in the Kedayan ethnic wedding customs in Lawas, Sarawak. This study was conducted by focusing on the implementation of berdikir and berbadak ceremonies in the Kedayan ethnic wedding customs in Lawas, Sarawak as well as analyzing the symbolic functions and meanings contained in both practices. The ceremony is part of the intangible cultural heritage that is still practiced in the Kedayan ethnic group in Lawas Sarawak and has a close relationship with religious elements, customs and the identity of the local community (Awang Azman Awang Pawi, 2013). In the context of cultural studies, wedding ceremonies are seen as an important field that reflects the values, beliefs and social structure of society. Previous studies have shown that cultural practices act as a system of symbols that form the meaning and identity of the community (Geertz, 1973), while oral traditions such as berdikir function as a medium for conveying values and social norms (Finnegan, 2012). However, studies that integrate the practice of berdikir and berbadak specifically in the Kedayan ethnic context in Lawas Sarawak are still limited. This study uses a qualitative approach through observation, interview and document analysis to understand the implementation and cultural meaning of the practice. The findings of the study show that berdikir functions as an expression of oral culture that contains elements of advice, prayer and praise, while berbadak symbolizes self-purification, blessing and blessings in the transition of the bride's life. These two practices complement each other in forming a ritual system that reflects the continuity of cultural heritage, the strengthening of social relations and the preservation of Kedayan ethnic identity in Lawas Sarawak. This study contributes to the enrichment of cultural studies by emphasizing the importance of ritual as a medium of meaning and transfer of cultural values in traditional and contemporary societies.

Marriage, Berdikir, Berbadak, Cultural Heritage, Ritual

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