TULUNGAGUNG – Larung Sembonyo festival returned to Sine Beach in Tulungagung this week as coastal communities gathered to preserve one of East Java’s oldest maritime traditions.
Fishermen and residents in Sine Hamlet, Kalibatur Village, Kalidawir District, carried a giant “buceng” offering to the middle of Sine Bay before releasing it into the sea. The annual ritual symbolizes gratitude for abundant fish catches and reflects respect for nature and ancestral heritage.
Local authorities, community elders, and residents joined forces to keep the centuries-old tradition alive. Many residents consider the ritual an important part of the cultural identity of Tulungagung’s southern coastal region.
Muhamad Ardian Candra, head of the Tulungagung Culture and Tourism Office, attended the event on behalf of the acting regent and stressed the importance of preserving local traditions amid rapid social change.
“The acting regent has delivered a clear message. We must protect this cultural tradition and ensure future generations continue it,” Candra said during the ceremony.
He added that Larung Sembonyo also carries strong tourism potential for Tulungagung. According to him, the local government plans to continue supporting cultural festivals while preserving their sacred values.
“We want these traditions to remain alive. At the same time, we also want more people to understand the cultural richness of Tulungagung,” he explained.
Organizing committee chairman Fredi Duwi Setiawan said residents played a central role throughout the preparation process. Villagers worked together with community groups and local officials to organize the event smoothly.
“Our main goal is to preserve the essence of the ritual while ensuring the festival runs successfully,” Fredi said. “Everyone contributed, from local residents to government representatives.”
The Larung Sembonyo festival also strengthens social ties among fishing communities in the area. Residents from different generations participated in every stage of the ceremony, including traditional prayers, cultural performances, and the symbolic offering procession into the sea.
Community elder Jumar praised the growing involvement of younger generations in protecting local heritage. He said traditions like Larung Sembonyo form an important part of the identity of coastal communities.
“This tradition represents who we are,” Jumar said. “I feel proud to see young people and the government working together to preserve our ancestors’ legacy.”
Tourism officials expect the festival to continue attracting visitors to Sine Beach while helping preserve local culture. Residents also hope the annual tradition will inspire younger generations to value and protect Indonesia’s maritime heritage.