The Baduy Indigenous Council in Lebak Regency, Banten, has officially banned foreign tourists from entering Baduy Dalam and Gajeboh Village in Baduy Luar. The decision was announced through an official circular issued by Tangtu Tilu, Jaro Tujuh, and Tanggungan Dua Belas—three key customary institutions of the Baduy community.

According to the circular, the restriction applies specifically to foreign nationals who are now prohibited from visiting Baduy Dalam and Gajeboh. This policy reaffirms long-standing customary rules and aims to protect sacred areas from external influence.

“This is the result of a meeting between traditional leaders. The restriction on foreign visitors has existed for a long time, and through this circular we are reaffirming the rule and have sent it to the local government,” said Jaro Oom, Head of Kanekes Traditional Village on October 6, 2025, as quoted by BantenEkspres.

Reaffirming Sacred Boundaries

Jaro Oom explained that the Baduy Adat Council reached this decision during customary meetings held on September 6 and 13, 2025. Under the new rule, foreign visitors are only allowed to reach Kaduketug 1, 2, and 3, which are located at the outermost boundary of Baduy Luar. Access to Cibeo, Cikartawana, and Cikeusik—the three core sacred villages in Baduy Dalam—remains strictly off-limits.

Gajeboh Village, located right on the border of Baduy Dalam, has now also been included in the restricted area for foreign tourists. Oom emphasized that this is intended to safeguard sacred spaces and preserve customary order.

“Gajeboh is directly adjacent to Baduy Dalam, so foreign tourists are not allowed to enter either. This is a matter of respect for sacred areas and maintaining customary order,” he said.

Despite the restrictions, the Baduy community remains open to tourism in other parts of Baduy Luar. Foreign visitors can still explore these areas if they are accompanied by a local Baduy guide or an officially appointed Indonesian tour guide.

This approach seeks to balance cultural preservation and tourism development, allowing visitors to experience Baduy culture while ensuring sacred sites remain protected.

Government Respects Customary Decision

The Lebak Culture and Tourism Office (Disbudpar) has expressed its full support for the Baduy Indigenous Council’s decision. Imam Rismahayadin, Head of Disbudpar Lebak, confirmed that the office has received the circular and will ensure it is enforced.

“We respect the decision of the Baduy traditional leaders. It must be followed because it represents an important form of cultural preservation,” Imam said.

Farid Surawan, Head of Creative Economy at Disbudpar Lebak, added that the government will disseminate official information about the new regulation to travel agents, tour guides, and prospective tourists to prevent misunderstandings.

“We will socialize this regulation to all relevant parties so visitors understand the boundaries before entering Baduy territory,” he explained, as reported by BeritaSatu.

The ban on foreign visitors to Baduy Dalam and Gajeboh reflects the Baduy community’s strong commitment to protecting their spiritual heritage and traditional way of life. By clearly defining tourist boundaries, the Indigenous Council ensures that tourism develops sustainably without compromising sacred values.

This decision stands as an example of community-led tourism management, where local cultural wisdom guides the interaction between tradition and modernity.

Source: BantenEkspres, BeritaSatu, TribunNews

Photo Credit: https://hananan.wordpress.com/