The Role of Socio-cultural Relations in Forming Community Perceptions of Geothermal Energy Existence in Lahendong, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

Lahendong Village of the Tomohon Municipal is one of the geothermal energy-producing areas in North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Geothermal energy has been a part of Lahendong people's daily life for hundreds of years. The existence of geothermal manifestations and the natural wealth contained therein support the life of the Lahendong people. Through the cultural records of the Lahendong community, geothermal energy is not only defined as the energy that drives power plants but also part of the socio-cultural and historical relations of the Lahendong community since the beginning of the Lahendong Village. This study aims to explore, identify, and analyze how the role of socio-cultural relations forms the community's perception of geothermal energy development in Lahendong. This study used qualitative data collection techniques involving observation of local life, in-depth interviews with the local respondents, and a literature review. The interpretation of the data followed the Hermeneutics-Philosophical method. The results of this study show that the community has local knowledge about geothermal energy through Maengket culture, which combines regional dances and songs. The socio-cultural relations of the Lahendong people have a big role in shaping people's attitudes towards geothermal development. The Lahendong community adheres to the principle of giving in, living in harmony, and minimizing conflict. On the one hand, it is the basis for socio-cultural relations that are full of the value of unity. This cannot be separated from the existence of cultural values that are adhered to through the Mapalus system, namely Sitou Timou Tomou Tou and Torang Samua Basudara which are based on humanist values in life as individual and social beings. The Lahendong people believe that by respecting other people, and treating others like relations, conflicts will be minimized, including in efforts to develop geothermal energy.