The Sasak people are known for their cultural identity, symbolizing the richness of Indonesian traditions in the eyes of the world. This is because the Sasak people possess a culture and traditions that reflect the local wisdom of their people. One such local wisdom reflected in the traditions and arts of the Sasak people is memaos.

Memaos is a unique tradition of reading ancient Sasak manuscripts written in the Jejawen script, or Sasak script. This tradition is part of the highly developed oral and written cultural literacy of the Sasak people, and is generally practiced by individuals called “Pememaos.”

The purpose of this art is to instill cultural values in the younger generation and enable them to learn about a past culture whose existence is largely unknown. Through this art, it is hoped that it will become a new attraction for international tourists to explore Indonesian culture.

Important Aspects of Memaos

1. Performing Group: Generally performed by a group of 3-4 people, each with the roles of reader, observer, and vocal support.

2. Reading Material: The texts read contain Islamic legends, stories of past kingdoms, and ancient texts such as Menak, Panji, and teachings.

3. Language: Read in the ancient Sasak language, which requires special training.

The Purpose and Meaning of Memaos

Conveying Cultural and Historical Values

Memaos aims to preserve and pass on knowledge about past cultures, Islamic teachings, life philosophies, and moral and spiritual values to future generations.

Entertainment and Education

Besides being an educational and ritual medium, memaos can also serve as a form of entertainment in the form of competitions or performances.

Introduction to the Sasak Script

Memaos is also closely related to the literacy of the Sasak people, who read ancient manuscripts written in the Jejawen or Sasak script.

Implementation of the Memaos Tradition

Memaos can be performed in the context of traditional events, religious rituals, and cultural education activities in villages, and can also serve as a cultural tourism attraction.

The Context of Memaos in Lombok

Memaos is also known as nyaer or memace in the Sasak language. In a broader context, communication rituals such as memaos help establish human identity as individuals and members of social communities.

The Memaos tradition is becoming increasingly rare due to limited mastery of ancient scripts and languages. Furthermore, people are increasingly losing interest in local traditions that should be preserved. Therefore, various cultural communities and traditional institutions in Lombok continue to promote Memaos Sasak training and festivals to ensure the younger generation retains their cultural heritage. Young people also play a crucial role in preserving and preserving local traditions.