Local Wisdom in the Oral Traditions of the Kerinci People as an Effort to Preserve the Environment

Abstract

Environmental degradation is on the rise due to a decline in public awareness of the need to preserve nature. This study aims to analyze the role of the oral traditions of the Kerinci community as a form of local wisdom in environmental conservation. The study employs a descriptive qualitative method, drawing data from traditional leaders and local residents who understand the oral traditions. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, while data analysis utilized qualitative descriptive techniques, including data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that oral traditions are still preserved in several areas of Kerinci and play a role in instilling environmental conservation values, such as respecting nature, maintaining ecosystem balance, and utilizing natural resources wisely. Oral traditions also serve as a means of ecological education passed down from generation to generation to the younger generation.