The Architecture Study Program at Universitas Indo Global Mandiri (IGM), in collaboration with the Indonesian Institute of Architects (IAI) South Sumatra Chapter, held a seminar titled “Kalindang” on Saturday, October 12, which discussed the earthquake-resistant construction of the Lamban Tuha, a traditional house of the Ranau tribe in South OKU.
The Dean of the IGM Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Ir. Endy Agustian, ST, M.Eng., IPP, said that this seminar linked traditional architecture with disaster mitigation. “It turns out that our local wisdom holds the answers to today’s disaster challenges,” he said.
This event also involved the South Sumatra Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. Participants included not only architecture students but also those studying regional and urban planning, as the fields of study within the Faculty of Engineering are interrelated. The speakers—Ir. Ari Siswanto, MCRP, Ph.D., and Drs. Yudhy Syarofie—took turns explaining the structure of traditional earthquake-resistant buildings as well as how to maintain and preserve them.
“The disciplines in the Faculty of Engineering reinforce one another; they cannot function in isolation,” said Endy.
Endy explained why he chose Kalindang. In his view, traditional elements need to be preserved amid modernization. He cited the example of traditional houses in South OKU, which are made of wood but remain standing and withstand earthquakes. “We can keep up with technological advancements, but we must not let our traditional roots be uprooted,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, the Head of the IGM Architecture Program, Ir. Endang Sri Lestari, M.T., added that this seminar is planned to take place annually in collaboration with the IAI and government agencies in the fields of culture and tourism. The content relates to seminar courses, history, and other relevant courses. “We hope that students will be able to learn these topics more easily and in greater depth,” she said.
Going forward, collaboration with partners will be expanded to include research, community service, and teaching. “We will always carry out research, community service, and teaching together with our partners as part of the Tridharma of Higher Education,” he concluded. (Andhiko Ta)
