The Description of Nias Traditional Houses as Cultural Heritage for Youth at Museum Pusaka Nias

Abstract

This study aims to describe the characteristics of Nias traditional houses as an important cultural heritage that should be recognized, understood, and preserved by the younger generation of Nias. It also identifies the challenges faced by Nias youth in recognizing the diversity of traditional houses and explores strategies to strengthen cultural preservation. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through direct observations at the Museum Pusaka Nias and across the five administrative regions of Nias Island, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, cultural experts, local communities, and youth representatives, as well as documentation studies from relevant literature and archival sources. The findings reveal that Nias traditional houses possess distinctive architectural characteristics that vary by region, including differences in building structure, construction materials, roof design, ornamentation, spatial arrangement, social functions, and philosophical meanings. Built without the use of nails and designed to withstand earthquakes, these houses demonstrate remarkable indigenous engineering and reflect the local wisdom, social values, and cultural identity of the Nias people. Nevertheless, many young people experience difficulties in identifying and distinguishing the various types of traditional houses due to economic constraints, modernization, urbanization, changing lifestyles, and the limited integration of local culture into educational programs. The study concludes that Nias traditional houses are not merely physical dwellings but enduring symbols of cultural identity and historical heritage. Therefore, collaborative preservation efforts involving government institutions, educational sectors, cultural organizations, local communities, and the younger generation are essential to ensure the sustainability of this valuable cultural legacy.