Encouraging communities' creativity in utilizing betel leaf as a traditional Aceh wedding ornament

Abstract

The activity of stringing betel leaves is a tradition in the Aceh region as one of the preparations for the handover of the bride and groom. While the betel leaves that are strung are called ‘ranup meususon’ in Acehnese. Betel leaf symbolizes the glory of the Acehnese people to honor guests. In Aceh wedding customs, the arrangement of betel leaves is a traditional Aceh wedding ornament that is important for the bride and groom. Many people use betel leaves only as medicine. So that the creativity that was previously often done is lost. The arranging ranup meususon is generally carried out by older people in the village, while the younger generation is almost uninvolved in the activity. The solution to this problem is to strive to increase the community's creativity in utilizing betel leaves as a traditional delivery decoration for Aceh weddings by making training activities for preparing betel leaves as ranup meususon. This community service activity aims to preserve Acehnese customs and culture for the younger generation as cultural heirs. The method of implementation in this activity is material deepening and group practice. The results of the service attended by the community can be seen from the enthusiasm and seriousness of the participants in participating in the activity and the success of arranging betel leaves in the form of their respective creations.