Coastal areas have become a home for 50.4% (140 million) of the population in Indonesia. Coastal communities have a way of life closely related to the sea and its natural resources. One of the practices that has been carried out for generations among the coastal communities of Dumai is the "Ngokang" activity. This study examines how ngokang practice is a source of livelihood and plays a vital role in shaping the identity and cultural practices of the local community. Qualitative methods were used in this study, such as collecting data through in-depth interviews with 10 pengokang and community leaders and tracing secondary sources. The study results indicate that the practice of ngokang is part of a broader culture or tradition of society that has been passed down from generation to generation in the Dumai City area. “Ngokang” is an adoption of the Japanese word 交換 'kokan', which means to exchange. Ngokang is a livelihood activity of the community that involves buying and selling on the sea, with large ships docked around the port of Dumai City. This buying and selling activity is unique because the payment system still uses 'barter'. This activity supports the local economy and is some people's primary source of income. However, the "Ngokang" activity is currently facing a serious dilemma because ngokang is considered by most people to be an illegal activity. This activity also raises the potential for danger and loss for pengokang in terms of material and non-material.

Authors:
Fajar Julian Santosa, PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional Refinery Unit II Dumai, Indonesia
Gatra Wiraandika, PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional Refinery Unit II Dumai, Indonesia
Agustiawan Agustiawan, PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional Refinery Unit II Dumai, Indonesia
Cahyo Wisnu Rubiyanto, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Widiyanto Widiyanto, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia

About the Presenter(s)
Fajar Julian Santosa, S.P., M.Si is currently a research assistant at the Center for Farmer Protection and Empowerment Studies, Institute for Research and Community Service, Universitas Sebelas Maret.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule

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