Asian Agri-History

I. Nyoman Norken ¹, I. Ketut Suputra ¹, I. Gusti Ngurah Kerta Arsana ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Civil Engineering, University of Udayana, Jimbaran, Badung 80361, Bali, ID

Abstract

Subak in Bali is a traditional irrigation system and is thought to have existed before the ninth century. Subak adopts the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which means three causes of the creation of harmony: the creation of a harmonious relationship with God/Creator; human relationship with the natural surroundings; and human relationship with other humans, and has been recognised as a World Cultural Heritage in 2012. Subak sustainability is dependent on the institutional and regulatory bodies in realizing the creation of harmonious relationship between man and man. The contribution of the board (Prajuru), especially the leaders (Pekaseh) of Subak in maintaining a tradition is held for many years, which is based on the principle of ngayah (working selflessly). The success of maintaining Subak is supported by the internal regulations (awig-awig); additional rules (perarem), and meeting decisions (pasuara). Awig-awig, which was originally just an agreement between the members of Subak, became a tradition called dresta or sima and is based on the belief related to Hinduism. Compliance of the prajuru and krama of Subak in carrying out activities in accordance with awig-awig is an important part in maintaining the Subak.

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