SGThe article describes the centuries-old whaling tradition of the Lamalera village in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province. The practice, considered part of the country's cultural heritage and conducted for subsistence rather than commercial gain, involves traditional methods such as hand-crafted harpoons and ceremonial rituals. These rituals include the Tobu Neme Fate reconciliation ceremony, the Ie Gerek ancestral ceremony, and the Misa Leva Catholic Mass, which blesses the whaling tools. While the tradition is recognized by the Indonesian government, there is uncertainty about its future, and efforts are underway to seek UNESCO intangible cultural heritage status. The article highlights the integration of Catholicism with indigenous practices and the importance of these rituals in maintaining the community's cultural identity.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the whaling tradition as a culturally significant practice with historical and spiritual dimensions, emphasizing its non-commercial nature and government recognition. It does not take a clear ideological stance, instead focusing on the cultural and social aspects of the practice
