Last modified: 2025-10-15
Abstract
This study analyzes the socio-philosophical meaning and modern relevance of the Mamasa proverb, “Rakka Batu Tuo Na Olai Pada Masa” (A large, old/hard stone can be broken by one word/voice/determination). Historically, this proverb has served as the foundation of values of unity and cooperation (gotong royong) for the agrarian communities in the mountainous region of Mamasa Regency, West Sulawesi. However, this collective philosophy now faces serious challenges from modern forces, including individualism, urbanization, and a shift in conflict resolution mechanisms from customary deliberation (musyawarah adat) to a formal, adversarial legal system. This research uses a qualitative approach, combining in-depth literature studies from journals and books related to Mamasa culture with primary data obtained through consultations and interviews with local community leaders. The analysis focuses on deconstructing the elements of the proverb and its impact on the social ethical framework of Mamasa. The results show that Kada Mesa (one voice/determination) symbolizes a solid shared vision and goal (one common vision and objective), an essential collective strength to overcome monumental obstacles in society, metaphorically represented by Rakka Batu Tuo. Nonetheless, current trends reveal a significant gap between this cultural idealism and practical reality, where personal or group interests often override the common good, ultimately hindering collective progress. This report concludes that maintaining the principle of Kada Mesa is crucial to preserving communal resilience. Targeted interventions are needed to reintegrate this local wisdom into contemporary conflict resolution processes and local development planning, to face disruptions caused by globalization.