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This article explores the symbolic meanings embedded in nonverbal communication present during the series of traditional Javanese wedding ceremonies from the Pakem Surakarta tradition. The purpose of this study is to identify and interpret the cultural symbols hidden in each phase of the ritual, such as the exchange of kembar mayang, stepping on eggs, sindur binayang, kacar-kucur, dhahar klimah, and sungkeman. The approach used in this study is a descriptive qualitative method with an ethnographic communication framework. Data was collected through direct observation and in-depth interviews with community leaders or wedding officiants, as well as cultural figures from the villages of Cendono and Bakalan in Pasuruan Regency. The findings of the study emphasize that the nonverbal symbols present in the ceremony carry meanings related to values of responsibility, role equality, purity, blessings, and affection, which are directed not only toward the bride and groom but also to the extended families and the surrounding community. Therefore, Javanese traditional marriage is not merely a ritual event, but also a means of preserving cultural teachings and spiritual values across generations. The ceremony reflects a strong bond between individuals, families, and the community, fostering social and spiritual harmony. Furthermore, this ceremony serves as a medium for strengthening intergenerational relationships within society, with the aim of preserving traditions and moral values in social life. Thus, a traditional Javanese wedding not only symbolizes the union of two individuals but also acts as a medium for maintaining and spreading cultural and spiritual values within the community.

This article explores the spirituality of the bate symbol within the context of the blessing of Catholic church buildings in Tana Toraja as a concrete form of inculturation of the Christian faith into local culture. Originally, bate functioned as a religious symbol in traditional Toraja ceremonies for inaugurating tongkonan (ancestral houses). Over time, however, this symbol has been adopted and reinterpreted in Catholic liturgical celebrations, particularly during church blessing rituals. The study employs a qualitative method using a literature review and applies Paul Ricoeur’s hermeneutical framework, which consists of three stages: the world of the interpreter, the world of the text, and appropriation. The analysis reveals that bate can be understood as a cultural text rich in spiritual meaning. Traditionally, it symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth as well as cosmic power. Within the perspective of Christian inculturation, bate undergoes symbolic reinterpretation, representing values of faith such as the Trinity, the cross, the Eucharist, the Holy Scripture, and Jesus Christ as the mediator of salvation. The incorporation of bate in Catholic liturgy is not merely a cultural adaptation but a tangible manifestation of the encounter between faith and culture, achieved in a contextual and symbolic manner within Torajan society. This study affirms the significance of inculturation in proclaiming the Gospel in a way that is relevant and grounded, without compromising the core essence of Catholic faith. Furthermore, it recommends further research on other local symbols to enrich the dialogue between faith and culture in pastoral contexts.

This study analyzes the symbolic meaning of the 2025 Easter Parade in Kupang City using a symbolic interactionist approach, with a central focus on the cross as a primary symbol. The cross is not only understood as a sacred religious emblem but also as a medium of social communication whose meaning is dynamically constructed through interactions between parade participants, spectators, and particularly the actors portraying the figure of Jesus. These social interactions allow for the reinterpretation of the symbol’s meaning based on cultural contexts and participants' experiences.The findings reveal that deviant behavior exhibited by some actors portraying Jesus created a dissonance between the ideal meaning of Christ’s suffering and the actual performance displayed during the parade. This mismatch caused cognitive dissonance among viewers and had the potential to distort the intended spiritual message of the symbol. The incident underscores the importance of actors' awareness of the sacred nature of the symbol and the necessity for responsible and contextually appropriate representations in public rituals.The study also emphasizes that religious symbols are fluid and do not possess fixed or absolute meanings. Instead, they are subject to redefinition based on individual and collective experiences, cultural backgrounds, and public perceptions. Within the context of the Easter Parade, the cross becomes a performative medium that reflects the values, beliefs, and social dynamics of the diverse society in Kupang. This research employs a mixed-methods approach by integrating both quantitative and qualitative data to provide a more comprehensive understanding. Quantitative data offers general insights into audience perceptions of the symbolic performance, while qualitative data explores deeper layers of symbolic meaning and the sociocultural implications that arise. Overall, this study contributes to the discourse on religion, symbolism, and public ritual by highlighting the importance of intentionality, appropriate representation, and cultural sensitivity in maintaining the sacredness of religious symbols in dynamic and pluralistic public spaces

This study investigates the ritual of worshipping the God of Fortune, particularly Kongco Han Tan Kong, as practiced by the Chinese-Indonesian community in Sentul, Bogor, where Bio Dewa Rejeki serves as the central site of ritual performance. Viewed through an anthropolinguistic lens, the research explores the interplay between language and cultural practices within the ritual, employing an ethnographic approach to examine the meanings, symbols, and values embedded in it, as well as their role in shaping communal identity. Beyond its religious dimension, the ritual reflects complex social and cultural dynamics, functioning as a mechanism for reinforcing solidarity and fostering identity amidst rapid social change. Statistical data indicate a significant rise in visitors to Bio Dewa Rejeki during the Lunar New Year celebration, averaging 5,000 daily visitors, thereby highlighting its strong appeal and integrative role within the local community while also attracting interest from non-Chinese participants seeking spiritual experience. Data collection is conducted through participant observation and in-depth interviews with organizers and participants over several months, providing a comprehensive understanding of the ritual’s implementation, symbolic meanings, and perceived significance in daily life. The findings are expected to contribute to a broader understanding of the interrelationship between language, culture, and religious practice within the Chinese-Indonesian community, underscoring the central role of language and communication in shaping spiritual experience and communal identity.

The Sea Picking Tradition is a cultural ritual of the coastal community in Jatirejo Village, Lekok District, Pasuruan Regency, which is held annually as a form of gratitude for marine products. Amidst the current of modernization, this tradition has an important meaning in preserving local wisdom and cultural heritage of coastal communities. This study aims to understand the symbolic meaning contained in the series of Sea Picking Tradition processions and examine its role as a form of local wisdom in maintaining community identity and solidarity. Cultural symbols displayed through offerings, decorated boats, traditional clothing, collective prayers, and other socio-cultural activities are seen as having deep meanings that represent the relationship between humans with nature, each other, and the Creator. The research method used is a qualitative approach with descriptive methods and symbolic interaction analysis. Data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed to uncover the hidden meanings in cultural symbols. The results show that the symbols in the Sea Picking Tradition form collective meanings that strengthen individual self-concept, social relations, and ecological awareness of coastal communities. This tradition serves as a means of strengthening social solidarity, solidifying local cultural identity, and preserving spiritual values ​​and local wisdom amidst the challenges of modernization. Thus, the Petik Laut tradition serves not only as a ritual of gratitude but also as a cultural heritage that must be preserved to maintain the social, cultural, and spiritual values ​​of coastal communities.

This study aims to explore how interpersonal communication plays a role in the process of constructing self-identity within the “Jemuah Keos” community in Surabaya. This community functions as an alternative social space inhabited by individuals with diverse creative backgrounds, such as musicians, motorcycle builders, visual artists, and subculture enthusiasts. The formation of identity in this community is not solely driven by individual expression but also shaped through social interactions that are reflective and rich in meaningful symbols. The study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive case study method. Data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews with nine informants, and documentation of various visual artifacts representing the community’s activities. The data analysis process follows the interactive model by Miles and Huberman, which consists of three main stages: data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The theoretical framework used in this study refers to Joseph A. DeVito's concept of interpersonal communication, which includes self-disclosure, empathy, emotional support, symbolic exchange, social values, as well as reflective interaction and role negotiation in social relationships. The findings indicate that interpersonal communication is a key element in shaping and negotiating personal identity. Cultural symbols such as clothing style, vehicle modifications, visual language, and daily interaction patterns become primary means of identity expression. The "Jemuah Keos" community demonstrates openness, equality, and a critical stance against the dominance of mainstream culture. Interpersonal communication within this community also plays a role in building collective solidarity and voicing critical views on existing cultural standards. The identity formed is not only personal but also part of a larger community identity.

This study focuses on the symbolic meanings embedded in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. The research utilizes a descriptive qualitative approach, with semiotic analysis serving as the theoretical foundation. The purpose of this study is to examine how the figurative language used in the poems contributes to conveying deeper symbolic meanings, beyond their role as mere rhetorical devices. The findings of this research reveal that the figurative language within the poems plays a significant symbolic role in expressing complex themes such as inner suffering, memories, identity, alienation, and the quest for the meaning of life. Symbols like 'storm,' 'refrigerator,' 'dusk,' 'window,' 'door,' 'river,' and others are employed to represent abstract concepts, providing a more nuanced understanding of the human experience. The study identifies various types of figurative language, including metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, synecdoche, paradox, and irony. Each of these elements serves to enrich the meaning of the poems, adding layers of depth to the interpretation and enhancing the aesthetic experience for the reader. Through these figurative expressions, the poet effectively invites the reader to engage with both the emotional and intellectual dimensions of the poetry. This research emphasizes how Joko Pinurbo's use of figurative language transcends its traditional ornamental function, making it a powerful tool for conveying complex symbolic and existential themes. By analyzing the symbolic meanings in the poems, this study contributes to a deeper appreciation of the interplay between language, meaning, and emotion in contemporary Indonesian poetry.

This study examines the institutional discourse and administrative practices of the Secretariat of the Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) in the newly established province of Southwest Papua, Indonesia. Utilizing a qualitative content analysis approach, the research analyzes a corpus of official documents produced between 2022 and 2025, with particular attention to how the principles of good governance—transparency, accountability, participation, and effectiveness—are reflected and operationalized in a transitional bureaucratic setting. The findings reveal that while procedural transparency and organizational effectiveness are relatively well-articulated in formal documents, mechanisms for accountability and citizen participation remain underdeveloped and largely symbolic. This indicates that the new administrative structures are still in the process of consolidating practices that meaningfully incorporate civic engagement. The study further identifies significant patterns of institutional isomorphism, wherein bureaucratic templates, legal frameworks, and administrative routines from older provincial governments are mimicked and reproduced. Although such imitation provides a sense of stability and legitimacy, it may come at the expense of local relevance and the incorporation of context-specific innovations. In particular, reliance on inherited bureaucratic models risks marginalizing indigenous governance traditions and community-driven practices that could enhance inclusivity and responsiveness. The analysis underscores the performative and symbolic dimensions of governance during periods of institutional formation, highlighting the tension between adopting established administrative norms and fostering context-sensitive practices tailored to the realities of frontier provinces. Methodologically, the study demonstrates the value of document analysis in capturing governance dynamics where field access is limited, politically sensitive, or constrained by security issues. The study concludes by offering practical recommendations: strengthening participatory frameworks to ensure more substantive public involvement, integrating indigenous governance values to enhance legitimacy, and designing flexible policy models that can adapt to the unique sociopolitical challenges of Southwest Papua. In doing so, the research contributes both to the broader scholarship on governance in post-conflict and frontier regions and to the practical debates on institutional development in Indonesia’s newest province.

Manado City is an area that is vulnerable to floods and landslides, but until now the effectiveness of disaster management still faces serious challenges due to low community involvement in mitigation planning. This study aims to analyze the role of participatory planning in improving community-based disaster preparedness, with a focus on how the Manado City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD: Badan Penanggulangan Bencana Daerah) involves the community in the process of formulating disaster strategies. Using a non-empirical qualitative approach through a literature study method, data were obtained from scientific journals, policy documents, and institutional reports that were analyzed thematically and contextually with reference to the framework of community participation and disaster risk management. The results of the study show that community involvement is still at a symbolic level, limited to the implementation stage, and has not touched the strategic planning process in a meaningful way. Lack of institutional capacity, low disaster literacy, and absence of formal participatory mechanisms are the main inhibiting factors. As a result, disaster programs are often not aligned with local needs and have an impact on low preparedness effectiveness. This study concludes that strengthening community participation in disaster planning is needed to build a more adaptive and iterative preparedness system. Theoretically, the study broadens the understanding of the relevance of participatory planning approaches in community-based disaster management, while practically, the findings provide recommendations for BPBDs and local governments to develop more collaborative and local needs-based policies as a step towards sustainable disaster resilience. 

This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic texts in depth. The results of the study show that the figurative language in the poems does not only function as rhetorical decoration or mere linguistic ornamentation, but has a strong and essential symbolic function in conveying hidden messages and the poet's inner emotions. Symbols such as "storm", "refrigerator", "twilight", "window", "door", "river", and others are not only concrete images, but convey deep meanings related to inner suffering, past memories, the search for self-identity, feelings of alienation, and the search for the universal meaning of life. In addition, this study also identifies various types of figurative language used by Joko Pinurbo in the anthology, including metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, synecdoche, paradox, and irony. All types of figurative language are skillfully used to enrich the meaning of poetry and deepen the aesthetic experience of readers, allowing them to feel and reproduce the messages hidden behind the words. Thus, this study confirms that the use of figurative language in poetry is not only a literary technique, but also a powerful medium of expression and a means of communicating complex meanings in modern literary works. This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic text in depth.

This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic texts in depth. The results of the study show that the figurative language in the poems does not only function as rhetorical decoration or mere linguistic ornamentation, but has a strong and essential symbolic function in conveying hidden messages and the poet's inner emotions. Symbols such as "storm", "refrigerator", "twilight", "window", "door", "river", and others are not only concrete images, but convey deep meanings related to inner suffering, past memories, the search for self-identity, feelings of alienation, and the search for the universal meaning of life. In addition, this study also identifies various types of figurative language used by Joko Pinurbo in the anthology, including metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, synecdoche, paradox, and irony. All types of figurative language are skillfully used to enrich the meaning of poetry and deepen the aesthetic experience of readers, allowing them to feel and reproduce the messages hidden behind the words. Thus, this study confirms that the use of figurative language in poetry is not only a literary technique, but also a powerful medium of expression and a means of communicating complex meanings in modern literary works. This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic text in depth.

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of violence experienced by individuals in the early adulthood age range (18–25 years), which is often a manifestation of unresolved traumatic experiences. Unmanaged trauma can have profound psychological impacts, affecting an individual's identity, social relationships, and outlook on life. However, within the framework of positive psychology, there is the concept of Post Traumatic Growth (PTG), which explains the potential for psychological growth that can emerge after an individual experiences severe stress or trauma. PTG includes positive changes in oneself, increased meaning in life, personal strength, and appreciation for life. The concept of PTG is the main foundation in the creation of abstract sculptures that attempt to represent the psychological journey of victims of violence, from destructive conditions to recovery and self-awareness. Abstract forms are used as a visual medium to reflect inner conflict, identity fragmentation, and the complex process of internal transformation. The choice of abstraction allows for free expression of realistic forms, thus presenting a profound symbolic interpretation. The method of creation of the work is carried out through an artistic approach that emphasizes the exploration of form, texture, material, and space in three-dimensional expression. This process not only produces visual objects but also creates expressive symbols that contain narratives of psychological healing. The sculpture is presented as a contemplative medium that invites the audience to experience, understand, and interpret the inner journey of victims of violence. The resulting creation demonstrates that abstract sculpture can be a powerful means of emotional communication, facilitating public understanding of the experience of trauma and the potential for post-traumatic growth. Thus, this work not only serves as an artistic representation of the inner dynamics of victims of violence but also serves as a reflective medium that fosters awareness of the human capacity to recover and thrive after experiencing profound suffering.

This research investigates the cultural significance of the transformation in the Ngaben ceremony, a central cremation ritual in Balinese Hindu tradition, focusing on the shift from traditional firewood-based methods to modern gas-based cremation practices. The Ngaben ceremony holds profound religious, philosophical, and social meaning, symbolizing the liberation of the soul from worldly ties and its journey to the afterlife. In recent decades, technological advancements and socio-environmental considerations have prompted many communities in Bali to adopt gas cremation systems, offering greater efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and lower operational costs. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach, this study draws on in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to explore how this transition affects cultural meaning, community values, and religious interpretations. The research compares the symbolic elements embedded in traditional and modern methods, examining how changes in materials, process duration, and ceremonial aesthetics influence the perceived authenticity and spiritual significance of the ritual. Findings reveal that while some community members view the adoption of gas cremation as a pragmatic adaptation that aligns with contemporary needs, others express concern about the erosion of cultural heritage and the diminished role of traditional craftsmanship. Furthermore, the study highlights the adaptive strategies employed by Balinese Hindu communities to integrate modern technology while preserving essential spiritual values, such as maintaining ritual sequences, symbolic offerings, and priest-led prayers. The analysis underscores that cultural transformation within religious practices is not a simple replacement of old methods with new ones, but rather a process of negotiation between tradition and innovation. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader discussions on cultural resilience, religious continuity, and the dynamic interaction between technological change and sacred tradition in contemporary Balinese Hindu society.

In the digital era, local governments face significant challenges in building a positive public image of regional leaders. The changing public communications landscape driven by technological advancements demands public relations (PR) strategies that are not only informative but also able to engage the emotional and symbolic dimensions of society. The main problem identified is the limited effectiveness of PR content strategies in changing public perceptions. Most content still emphasizes the delivery of factual information, but does not optimally develop narratives, symbols, and interactions that can strengthen the leadership image. This study analyzes this problem using the ADO (Antecedent-Decision-Outcome) approach. Within this framework, PR content innovation is positioned as a prerequisite factor (antecedent), digital communication strategies as the decision (decision), and the formation of the regional leader's image as the final outcome (outcome). The study was conducted using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of seven scientific articles that met the inclusion criteria. The analysis is supported by Image Management Theory, Government Communication Theory, and the New Public Governance paradigm, which emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and public participation in governance. Research findings indicate that innovative digital communication strategies—such as the use of social media, visualization of leadership activities, personal narratives, and two-way interactions with citizens—have a significant impact on building and strengthening a positive image of regional leaders. This approach not only increases public trust but also creates more meaningful engagement between leaders and the public. The study's findings confirm that PR plays a strategic role as a key actor in shaping public perceptions of regional leadership in the digital era. The success of image building depends not only on the quality of the message, but also on PR's creativity, consistency, and ability to adapt modern communication technology to meet the dynamics of public information needs and expectations.

The Golek Gonjing Miring Dance is one of the classical dance works created by Dona Dhian Ginanjar in 2019. This work is interesting to study because it combines two classical Javanese dance styles, namely the soft and feminine Surakarta style and the firm and masculine Yogyakarta style, as a symbol of the duality of women's nature. The theme of this dance tells the story of the angels who came down from heaven to have fun on earth, which is visualized through smooth and expressive choreography with a variety of traditional movements. The accompanying music uses Gendhing Ladrang Gonjing Miring Laras Pelog Nem, which supports the mystical and graceful atmosphere in the performance. Supporting aspects such as make-up, costume design, stage design, and lighting design also strengthen the delivery of artistic and symbolic meaning in this work. This study aims to describe the choreographic form of the Golek Gonjing Miring Dance, musical structure, and supporting visual elements that form an aesthetic unity in the performance. The results of the study show that the Golek Gonjing Miring Dance is not only a medium for preserving Javanese classical dance culture, but also a form of innovation that represents female characters in a more complex way.

The phenomenon of bullying among teenagers is an increasing and complex social problem, not only occurring in everyday life but also widely represented through mass media, one of which is teen drama. One popular media that highlights this issue is My Nerd Girl Season 1, which shows the reality of bullying in its various forms. The main character, Rea, is depicted as a victim of bullying who experiences verbal, emotional, and social pressure from her environment. This representation illustrates that bullying is not just an individual act, but part of a social construction that is full of meaning. This study aims to explore how bullying is presented in the drama My Nerd Girl Season 1 using Roland Barthes's semiotic approach. The analysis focuses on the denotative, connotative, and mythical meanings contained in the visual and narrative symbols in the bullying scenes. The research data in the form of scene clips showing forms of bullying, are then analyzed to reveal the underlying social ideology. The results show that this drama represents bullying in various forms, ranging from verbal, cyber, physical, to social. These bullying acts are presented as a form of power, domination, and group control over individuals. The emerging connotative meanings indicate that bullying is legitimized by adolescent ideologies regarding popularity, physical appearance standards, and social acceptance in the school environment. The myth constructed through the drama's narrative is that symbolic and social violence is often considered normal or even necessary to maintain a certain social status. Thus, My Nerd Girl Season 1 serves not only as entertainment but also as a medium for social reflection that reveals the reality of bullying among adolescents.  

This article explains the Bakaua ritual at sacred graves, a tradition of the Nagari Sungai Limau community that has deep theological value. This research aims to analyze the meaning of theological values in the Bakaua ritual and how its practice can strengthen people's spiritual relationships. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, this research examines the spiritual, social, and cultural aspects inherent in the Bakaua tradition. The research results indicate that this ritual serves not only as a means of prayer and respect for ancestors but also as a medium for strengthening social relations and preserving local wisdom. Apart from that, the Bakaua ritual is seen as a form of asking for protection, expressing gratitude, and fulfilling vows, which reflects the close relationship between culture and theology in the life of Minangkabau society. The method used in this research is qualitative, encouraging a different approach from previous research, which only discussed Bakaua dramaturgy in the Minangkabau society. However, this paper places more emphasis on aspects of theological values in the Bakaua ritual tradition at sacred graves. This study highlights how theological meaning is embodied through symbolic practices, offerings, and communal prayers that represent submission to divine will. It also reveals how the ritual facilitates intergenerational transmission of spiritual values, maintaining continuity of belief systems in modern contexts. By analyzing community participation and oral narratives, the research uncovers deep spiritual motives rooted in Islamic beliefs intertwined with local cultural expressions. In addition, the findings underscore the community’s resilience in preserving traditional theology-based rituals despite the influence of modernization and shifts in religious interpretations. The Bakaua ritual thus becomes a cultural-theological bridge that binds generations and sustains spiritual identity within the dynamic life of the Minangkabau people.

The objective of this investigation is to describe the semiotics of the ornaments found on the traditional Karo house known as Siwaluh Jabu in the cultural village of Lingga. A descriptive-qualitative method was employed in this study. The theoretical framework was based on the semiotic theory of Charles Sanders Peirce. The data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The primary data consist of ornaments located on the exterior parts of the Siwaluh Jabu house. The investigation was conducted in the cultural village of Lingga, located in the Karo Regency, North Sumatra. The findings reveal the presence of various ornaments on the Siwaluh Jabu house, including: (1) buffalo horn, (2) Kudin Taneh, (3) Lumut-Lumut Lawit, (4) Ipen-ipen, (5) Pengret-ret, (6) Pantil Manggis, (7) Bunga Bincole, (8) Pucuk Merbung, (9) Embun Sikawiten, (10) Bindu Matagah, (11) Tapak Raja Sulaiman, (12) Cimba Lau Tutup Dadu, (13) Bindu Matogoh, (14) Teger Tudung, (15) Dapur-dapur, (16) Cuping-cuping, and (17) Taruk-taruk. Each ornament is imbued with symbolic meaning, which is closely connected to the culture, religion, and social structure of the Karo community.

Panji Kahirupan Dance is a Cirebonese mask dance created by H. Taufik Hidayat, the founder of Sanggar Ki Bagus Rangin. This dance portrays the journey of human life, from pre-birth to adulthood, inspired by the changing characters (wanda) of the Cirebon mask tradition. This study aims to describe and analyze the symbolic meanings embedded in the Panji Kahirupan Dance. The research uses a qualitative method with a semiotic approach, allowing the researcher to explore both the denotative and connotative meanings of the symbolic elements in the dance. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and validated using triangulation of techniques and sources. The data analysis involves data reduction to select relevant information, data presentation to synthesize findings, and conclusion drawing to interpret the symbolic meanings of each performance element. The costumes carry symbolic meanings through their colors: white represents the sanctity of life’s beginning, yellow symbolizes spirit, and red denotes ambition. The soft gamelan music contributes to a spiritual and contemplative atmosphere. The floor patterns, such as circles and straight lines, symbolize the life cycle and life’s purpose.

The Bapalas Bidan tradition is a ritual of the Dayak tribe in Kalimantan to express gratitude to the midwife after the birth process. The ritual includes activities such as bathing the baby, serving offerings, and performing a symbolic ceremony to spiritually "return" the baby from the midwife to its parents. In the past, these rituals had a magical element, but nowadays more prayers and Islamic principles are applied. While modern midwifery practice faces challenges to its survival, this tradition remains crucial as it strengthens culture and social connections. This study examines the meaning of the tradition, its evolution, and the ways in which communities maintain it in modern times.