Almost everyone on Haruku Island, Central Maluku knows Pak Abu. His full name is Abratif Tuasikal, an education supervisor who oversees 24 schools in Haruku Island Subdistrict. Born and raised in Negeri Pelauw, Haruku Island Subdistrict, Pak Abu holds a wealth of experience as a local education actor. As a native of Negeri Pelauw and an education supervisor, he stands as one of the frontliners in maintaining the harmony between formal education and local customs.
In Haruku Island, all traditional activities are neatly organised in a special calendar—so teachers and students can participate without concern for scheduling conflicts with academic lessons. Instead, various ceremonies such as the installation of the raja (village head), Maulid (The Birth of the Prophet Muhammad SAW) celebrations, and the Cakalele (A traditional ceremony that portrays the story of the Pelauw community’s resilience) tradition performed every three years—serve as platforms for students to enrich their knowledge, boost their confidence, and interact with the broader community.
“In these traditional events, there are many components that provide opportunities for students to mingle with the community, courageously use the local language, and perform in front of many people,” explains Pak Abu.
Beyond his role as an education facilitator, Pak Abu’s contribution to preserving traditions and customs on Haruku Island is also carried out through organisational work. The Youth Student Association of Pelauw (IPPMAP) led by Pak Abu actively organises various competitions, such as poetry and speeches in the local language, as well as Quranic reading and writing contests.
Collaboration Within the Education Ecosystem
On Haruku Island, schools are not only viewed as educational institutions but as communities that are often mobilised for major traditional activities, such as the installation of a raja. Before the ceremony begins, the entire school community—from teachers to students—participates in communal cleaning of traditional houses.
Teachers also play a role and are present during important community moments, such as ceremonies at the soa (clan house) when someone passes away. Such involvement strengthens the relationship between schools and the community.
“Usually teachers attend the soa house to show their role in the family and community, for example as a child or son-in-law,” explains a community member.
Inspiration for Indonesia
In the spirit of the International Day of the World Indigenous Peoples, the story from Haruku Island reminds us that preserving culture does not mean rejecting progress. By combining both, we can create a generation that is both intelligent and of strong character.
Pak Abu and fellow education actors in Central Maluku prove that the best education is one that honours the past while preparing for the future. Through the inspiring story from Haruku Island, we learn that it is not enough for Indonesian children to be merely intelligent—but understanding their identity and culture is equally important.