%20Support for local culture

The project
Significance and aims
Results
Plans and needs



Project name: Support for local culture		Location: The location of the old Tomohon, Wolan.

This location overlooks a deep valley. It was the place of an old settlement 750 years ago, of which nothing is now left because the houses were made of wood. However, dozens of megalithic tombs are found here, slowly eroding and sinking into the ground. Masarang has purchased this important piece of land so that these historic stones can be moved to a place where they can be preserved and tourists can view them. Traditional rituals are also being performed during their move from sacred ground.

The project

Masarang helps to strengthen many extraordinary and sustainable aspects of the original culture of the local people and to promote social cohesion. Thus support is provided for the long-standing custom that people who marry plant trees which will be used to build a home for their children. Local dance groups that perform traditional harvest and war dances also receive support. There is a contest for youth to determine who can speak the traditional language best and who knows the most about the local culture and region. Sports, music and local handicrafts such as weaving also receive support.

Masarang has also cooperated on the construction of an amphitheater. This is a place where local people gather for social and cultural events and where the local farmers' cooperative meets. The location of this theater is a place of historical importance for the local community. Centuries-old graves are located in the area which are being ceremonially moved to a more central location in fields and can be visited by tourists

Furthermore, local orphanages are provided with traditional musical instruments on which the children can perform, sponsoring is provided for biology teachers and school equipment is donated.

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Significance and aims of the project

The cultural program gives youth the opportunity for relaxation and leisure activities

Preserving worthwhile and enduring traditions, standards and values

Boosting social cohesion, self-esteem and cooperation, which are essential conditions for effective nature conservation

Masarang links up to existing local structures, through which it reaches more people, is embedded in the local community and is more effective

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Results

An amphitheater with a capacity of 5,000 has been built, where local people gather for social and cultural events and where the local farmers' cooperative meets

At least ten new youth groups who perform traditional dance have been formed

30 megalithic structures have been preserved

Three sets of Kolintang (musical instruments) have been safeguarded

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Future plans and needs

We would like to form more groups and donate more traditional musical instruments. The groups also need traditional costumes, which cost about 600 euros for a group of 25 young people. A set of traditional instruments costs 500 euros.

Project Leader
Jef Maerah
Jef trains the groups, organizes competitions and is the general motivator for art and culture.

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