Indonesia has a variety of unique traditions rich in cultural and historical values. One of them is Tarung Sarung, an Indonesian tradition involving a one-on-one fight using a sarong as the main weapon. Although it looks simple, this Indonesian tradition tests the agility, speed, and courage of its participants. Getting to know Tarung Sarung better will lead us to a deeper understanding of the richness of Indonesian traditions.
According to records from community leaders in several regions of East Java and Nusa Tenggara, the Indonesian tradition of Tarung Sarung is often held in the context of certain celebrations, such as after the harvest season or during religious events. Bapak Kyai Haji Usman (fictional character name for article purposes), a religious leader in a village in Madura, East Java, stated that Tarung Sarung was once a forum for friendship and a showcase of skills among the village youths. He shared this when met after a Tarung Sarung event in his village on Sunday night, April 27, 2025. “This is not just a fight, but also a way to strengthen brotherhood,” he said.
In the Indonesian tradition of Tarung Sarung, two participants face each other, each holding the ends of a sarong. The sarong is then wrapped and used to attack and defend. The rules in Tarung Sarung can vary depending on the region, but generally emphasize sportsmanship and avoid dangerous attacks. Skills in wrapping the sarong, avoiding the opponent’s attacks, and launching counter-attacks are the main keys in this Indonesian tradition.
The local Head of Police Sector, AKP Agus Salim, S.H., while supervising the Tarung Sarung event on the village field that night, stated that his team was monitoring the event to ensure there were no rule violations and potential for real fights. He emphasized that this Indonesian tradition must remain an event that upholds the values of brotherhood and sportsmanship. “We support activities that preserve Indonesian traditions like this, as long as they maintain security and order,” he said.
Although perhaps not widely known, the Indonesian tradition of Tarung Sarung has important cultural value and is part of the nation’s heritage. Getting to know and appreciate Indonesian traditions like this is a way to enrich our understanding of the cultural diversity in the archipelago.