The Impact of Migration on The Assimilation of The Customs and Traditions of The Bugis Community in The Fisheries Activity

Abstract

Migration has affected the customs and culture of the Bugis people. As immigrants, their local beliefs, customs and culture have been assimilated into their daily activities. Thus, this study was conducted to examine the knowledge of the customs and culture practised in fishing activities among the Bugis people by comparing the past with the present. A series of qualitative in-depth interviews were carried out to 10 informants in five areas in the Pontian district, Johor. This study found that a number of systems, culture and principles such as pemmali, penggaderreng and ade' are still practised in their fishing activities, though there are some assimilation of local religion and culture occurred. Many of the Bugis traditions and culture that contradict Islamic beliefs have been left out by the Bugis people who have converted Muslim. Reciting Quran and salawat have now been practising in the beliefs. These practises are due to the influences of Islamic traditions and culture in the Bugis fisheries activity, as well as local people and the current technology changes. In order to sustain the original customs and culture of Bugis, the involvement of young generation and increasing cultural activities should be emphasized so that the Bugis heritage is not forgotten. The original customs and culture however, must not contradict Islamic beliefs.