The Origins of Padang Cuisine and an Economic Impact of Minangkabau Peoples in Surabaya (1960’s -owadays)

Abstract

Minang society is one of the ethnic groups in Indonesia that has a tradition called merantau (migrating). They migrated to foreign countries, which are specifically based on Malay culture. One of them is Malaysia (and Singapore), also known as Melaka. Meanwhile, Surabaya is not the wandering destination for minang society. However, it is currently experiencing extraordinary development. One of the characteristics of the presence of Minang society is "rumah makan padang". This restaurant became a driving force for the economy. This study aims to examine more of the history and development of minang society in terms of migration from an economic aspect. Through a historical approach using perspective migration theory by De Jong, the study reveals how Padang restaurant became the cultural capital of minang society overseas. This study uses a qualitative approach with data collection techniques in the form of interviews or oral history. The results obtained show that the migration of minang society in Surabaya is based on the purposive behavior of perspective migrants, who consciously make decisions by feeling consequential and evaluative. The results of feeling and evaluating the migration area resulted in the decision to build the Padang restaurant as a livelihood in Surabaya. In terms of income, Padang restaurant that managed by minang people, generates a large income, it can be seen from the employees and how they send money to their hometown.