Efforts to Support the Preservation of Tropical Forests Through the Roko Molas Poco Ritual in Manggarai Culture, NTT

Abstract

Tropical forests are among the most complex and biodiverse ecosystems in the world, yet they are currently threatened by various pressures such as deforestation, land conversion, and environmental degradation. One of the efforts to preserve tropical forests is through the cultural and traditional approaches of local communities, involving them in the conservation efforts. Those who live around the forest possess traditional knowledge and wisdom that can be used as a foundation for forest care. Therefore, this Community Service activity aims to enhance the understanding and practices of the Manggarai community in managing tropical forests through the cultural approach of Roko Molas Poco, thereby contributing to the preservation of tropical forests in the Manggarai region. This community service activity was carried out at Mbaru Gendang Tere, Mocok Village, Poco Leok on December 5-6, 2023. Participants of this activity were the Mocok Village community, who actively engaged in various activities focused on the implementation of the Roko Molas Poco ritual. This community service activity consisted of preparation, implementation, and evaluation stages. Key results from this community service activity include an increased understanding of the ecological value of tropical forests among the community. Through an approach that combines traditional rituals with environmental education, participants showed an increased awareness of the importance of maintaining ecosystem balance. Additionally, this community service ctivity also strengthened social cohesion through the implementation of the Roko Molas Poco ceremony. This activity not only focused on efforts to maintain forest sustainability but also reinforced the communal bonds and cultural identity of the Manggarai community.