Preservation Efforts for the "Kubur Tujuh" Historical Site in Kao Boost Community Cultural Awareness

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FORMOSA NEWS

A community service team from Khairun University, Ternate, conducted a socialization program on the preservation of the "Kubur Tujuh" historical site in Kao Village, North Maluku, in 2026. This site is an important historical remnant associated with the Kao War of 1904 against Dutch colonial forces. The program aims to increase public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, regarding the importance of safeguarding local historical heritage amidst the threats of modernization.

Background and Issues

Although the "Kubur Tujuh" site holds significant historical and symbolic value for the local community, public understanding regarding its preservation remains relatively low. The lack of historical documentation and insufficient active community involvement in maintaining the site make it vulnerable to degradation. This condition is further exacerbated by modernization and urbanization, which often disregard cultural conservation aspects.

Methodology

The program employed a participatory approach that integrates education and community engagement. The steps taken included:

• ·         Preliminary assessment: Identifying the physical condition of the site and the level of community awareness through observation and interviews.
• ·         Participatory socialization: Using interactive lectures, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and workshops.
• ·         Educational approach: Delivering material on the history of the 1904 Kao War, tailored to local wisdom to make it more relevant to the community.
• ·         Empowerment: Forming a historical awareness group involving youth and community leaders to ensure the sustainability of site preservation efforts.

Key Findings

The results of the program indicate a significant increase in understanding among the community in Kao Village. Residents have begun to demonstrate positive attitudes toward preservation efforts, reflected in local initiatives to maintain cleanliness, protect the area, and develop the site as a source of historical education and potential cultural tourism.

Implications and Impact

Preserving historical sites is not merely about maintaining physical structures but is part of a cultural strategy to strengthen national identity. According to Abd. Rahman from Khairun University, active community involvement as the subject of preservation is the key to cultural heritage sustainability. Naming public facilities after heroes associated with the site was also proposed as a symbolic effort to strengthen the community's collective memory. Moving forward, collaboration between academics, the government, and the community is essential to ensure the site is preserved for future generations.

Author Profile:

·          Abd. Rahman-  Universitas Khairun

·          Junaib Umar-  Universitas Khairun

Research Source

 Rahman, A., & Umar, J. (2026). "Community Engagement for Preserving the 'Kubur Tujuh' Site of the Kao War 1904, as One of the Historical Traces in Kao District in North Halmahera". Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Bestari (JPMB), 5(5), 399-414. 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/jpmb.v5i5.28.

URL: https://journaljpmb.my.id/index.php/jpmb