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Jakarta, VIVA – East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is one of Indonesia’s provinces rich in cultural diversity and enduring traditions. Various ethnic groups such as the Manggarai, Sikka, Rote, and Timorese form a vibrant cultural mosaic, each with distinct languages, attire, traditional houses, and ceremonial practices passed down through generations.
One of the most renowned cultural landmarks of NTT is the traditional Wae Rebo village in Manggarai, famous for its cone-shaped houses called Mbaru Niang. Meanwhile, the Maumere region in Sikka Regency is known for its dynamic Hegong dance and exquisite handwoven ikat fabrics.
These cultural expressions are not just relics of the past—they are living traditions that continue to inspire and thrive in community life, often showcased in festivals and celebrations.
NTT communities are strongly rooted in values of solidarity and communal cooperation, which are evident in customary ceremonies such as Penti in Manggarai or Hale in Sikka.
In traditional weddings, for instance, the process from proposal to the ceremonial rites involves the broader community and extended family, emphasizing the importance of social bonds and ancestral respect.
The richness of local NTT culture is increasingly finding space in formal and modern occasions, including weddings. This was beautifully reflected in the wedding reception of young politicians Mario Pranda and Stevi Harman, held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Jakarta.
Their reception, which took place at the Tribrata Building, embraced a theme that blended Manggarai and Maumere traditions—showing how local culture can be meaningfully incorporated into sacred modern moments.
Decorations featured miniature replicas of the iconic Wae Rebo house, traditional woven fabrics, and a Hegong dance performance that added warmth and vibrant cultural flair to the evening. For Stevi Harman, the use of cultural elements was not just for aesthetics, but a tribute to heritage.
“We wanted our wedding to be not only sacred on a personal level but also a reminder that tradition is not meant to be left behind—it should be proudly celebrated,” she stated.
The blend of Manggarai and Maumere traditions symbolized the union of two families and a shared pride in the cultural richness of East Nusa Tenggara.
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Their reception, which took place at the Tribrata Building, embraced a theme that blended Manggarai and Maumere traditions—showing how local culture can be meaningfully incorporated into sacred modern moments.
