Toerang Batu Dance of Mamuju Regency, West Sulawesi Province
Mamuju Regency is known for its majestic sea and exotic beaches indeed. Still, it also offers unique cultures to visitors and tourists including an interesting Indonesia traditional dance called Toerang Batu. The dance has become the locals’ tradition and it is the part of West Sulawesi Province as well. In terms of performance, it looks like a regular war dance but it has several distinct features that make it different from others. For tourists, the dance can be a nice entertainment when they spend a vacation in Mamuju. Not to mention it is worth some photo shoots!
The Nuance
The thing is Toerang Batu Dance doesn’t emit a merry nuance. Instead, it looks a little bit intense and expressionless. The best part is definitely the costume. The dancers wear traditional attire, for sure. The male dancers wear a long shirt and long local fabrics. They also wear a cap and Sarong as the ornaments. As for the accessories, these dancers carry local weapons like Keris, Tombak, or Pedang. As for the female dancers, they wear similar attire to the men. The thing that makes it different is the accessories including bracelets, earrings, necklace, and hijab.
Exploring Toerang Batu Dance
It is true Toerang Batu Dance involves only men as the prime dancers. However, female dancers may also join the performance as the extras. No wonder, the dance looks richer as both male and female dancers participate in it. Here is the information. Tourists should know the dance is considered endangered or rare. That means it won’t be easy to find the schedule and watch the dance directly when tourists come to West Sulawesi Province later.
In terms of function, Toerang Batu Dance was performed by the local warriors before they went to the battlefield. The purpose was to boost the bravery and confidence, so they would be able to beat the enemies easily. These days, though, it becomes a mere a local tradition and entertainment for tourists. The good thing is the local government puts a good attention to it and includes the dance to the list of local heritage. In fact, it even has a significant history! It is said the dance was the part of the Binuang Kingdom, so tourists can learn more about it from the locals later.
During the performance, the dancers may show some moves and play the weapons gracefully. The female dancers, though, carry a bowl of flowers instead of weapons. Aside from such beautiful moves, the dance also features soothing music! The instruments are Gendang, Gong, and other traditional musical instruments.
Nearby Attractions
- Tammasapi Waterfall
- Manakarra Beach
- So’do River
- Tapandullu Beach
- Karampuang Island
How to Get There
The fastest way to get to Mamuju City is by an airplane. If tourists come from Jakarta City, they can get the service at Soekarno – Hatta International Airport and the destination is Tampa Padang Airport at Mamuju. This flight takes approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. Once arriving at the destination, they can visit a nearby village and look for the information regarding the schedule of the performance of the dance.
Where to Stay
- Srikandi Hotel
- Pantai Indah Hotel
- M City Hotel
- Mamuju Beach Hotel
- Diana Hotel
