Balinese society has been known for its unique traditions that significantly influence environmental protection. In ancient remnants and inscriptions, this harmony between faith, society and nature is evident, reflecting a deeply rooted environmental awareness. Their approach embeds local wisdom to seek a balance between human needs and the conservation of nature, which is reflected in practices such as the Subak irrigation system. This ancient system, which dates back to the pre-India era, was not only an agricultural tool, but also a respect for water, an indispensable symbol of Balinese culture. The Balinese developed several systems for water management, such as the management of the Pakrisan River in the 10th century and the Taman Surrey temple in the 15th to 17th centuries, highlighting their commitment to ecological sustainability. However, these practices now face the challenge of maintaining a balance between modern socio-cultural and economic pressures.
My PhD produced Geria from the Indonesian National Research and Innovation Bureau, and his team, explored this ancient wisdom and discovered how it shapes Balinese people’s lives and preserves their natural resources. Their research was conducted with Dr. Titi Nastiti, Dr. Retno Handini and Dr. Ni Juliawati of the same institution Fauzi at the Centre for Archaeological Research represents a significant exploration of the close relationship between Bali people and the environment. Their work, published in the peer-reviewed journal Heliyon, elaborates on Tri Hita Karana’s Balinese philosophy, emphasizing the balance between humans, nature and God.
Dr. Geria’s team highlighted the Subak System, an ancient method of water distribution that reflects Bali’s commitment to working in harmony with nature. “One of the most prominent practices in Balinese society is that what is wise in the development of built environments is their traditional water management. There is a sign that water management and glory of the Balinese people has begun since the pre-Hindu era. ” said Dr. Jeria.
Modern challenges, such as rapid tourism development and land use changes, pose a threat to the sustainability of Bali’s traditional water management. Dr. Geria stressed the need for protection of water sources: “Water should be protected and sacred water should be preserved to maintain the sustainability of the water cycle. The concept of Kaja-Kelod regards the direction of the mountain as sacred, which means The mountains must be protected as the source of life of the well.”
I made Dr. Geria proud of Balinese philosophy, saying: “Through spirituality, they maintain the environment with the concept of tri hita karana, which is in maintaining harmonious relationships with the creator, the creator , creator, creator, 3 elements to be maintained. Each other is biological and environment. Now, this philosophy has become the way of life for the people of Balinese. “This emotion emphasizes the relationship between Balinese spiritual belief and its environmental practices Keep in touch.
My PhD makes Geria and his team’s learning a reminder of the lasting wisdom that is possessed in traditional practice. As the world responds to environmental challenges, the example of harmonious water management in Bali is an inspiring model that illustrates how cultural heritage and environmental management can coexist, paving the way for a sustainable future.
Journal Reference
I made Geria, Titi Surti Nastiti, Retno Handi, Wawan Sujarwo, Acwin Dwijendra, Acwin Dwijendra, Mohammad Ruly Fauzi, Ni Putu Eka Juliawati, “Building the Environment from the Ancient Bali: “Bali: Balinese Heritage for The Balinese Heritage for The Balinese Heritage for Sustainable Water Management” ://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.E21248.
About the Author
PhD I made Jeria He was born on January 1, 1962. He is the principal investigator of the Center for Environmental Archaeology and Cultural Sustainability, National Bureau of Research and Innovation. He received his Master’s Degree in Archaeology and Environmental Studies from Udayana University in 1986 and 2004. In 2019, he received his PhD in Resources and Environmental Management from IPB University. He has published many scientific works in national and international journals. His latest publication, titled “Ancient Bali: The Built Environment of Bali’s Heritage of Sustainable Water Management in Bali”, was published in International Journal Heliyon. His publication list can be found on Scopus ID number 57196150738 and OrcID ID
One of his Tambora sites in West Nusa Tenggara, western Indonesia is a site where he works. The eruption of Mount Tambora occurred in 1815, not only locally but also globally climate influences. The results of the study on the Tambora website have been published in a book by UGM Press. He also served as the head of the National Archaeological Research Center from 2014 to 2021. In addition, he served as a member of the Governing Council of Seameo SPAFA from 2019 to 2022. and international level. He is currently involved in professional scientific organizations, namely the Indonesian Association of Archaeologists and the Center for Prehistoric and Southern Studies.
