STRUCTURE, NORM and LIFESTYLE (SNL): THE RECONSTRUCTION OF SACRED FOREST MYTH AS SOCIAL CAPITAL OF GREEN ECONOMY IN INDONESIA
Susi Fitria Dewi, Tetti Eka Purnama, Febri Yulika

Universitas Negeri Padang
Institut Seni Indonesia padangpanjang

Abstract

The myths of sacred forest can be reconstructed into environmental protection strategies by integrating three elements namely structure (S), norm (N), and lifestyle (L). This paper aims to identify the types of myth of sacred forest, analyse factors influencing the myth, and develop strategies to protect the environment based on the sacred forest myths. By using a phenomenology research design, interviewing eleven informants, analysing YouTube videos, and having a focused group discussion, this study finds three myths regarding sacred forest. These three myths were preserved due to structural and cultural factors that protect them. Myths can be reconstructed into social capital by developing three strategies: strengthening the organisational structure of the indigenous society (S), implementing norm sanction (N), and promoting a simple lifestyle (L). This study concluded that the SNL reconstruction can be an alternative to shaping environmental protection behaviour and preventing nature exploitation which is in line with green economy objectives commenced by the Indonesian government.

Keywords: Myth, sacred forest, social capital, green Economy, indigenous people

Topic: Socio-Economic Empowerment and Cultural Identity