Cross-generational Smong narratives in Aceh’s tsunami resilience

Smong is an indigenous knowledge of the Simeuluean people related to tsunamis, which proved to be successful in saving lives during the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. This study investigates the cross-generational development of Smong narratives among the Simeuluean people by exploring their resilience to tsunamis. The data collected through in-depth interviews in 2016, 2017, 2022, and 2023 unraveled the intricate dynamics of Smong narratives. This study captures the perspectives of 37 interviews of 18 participants selected based on age, gender, and availability. Older participants who received the Smong story from someone who experienced the 1907 tsunami and the 2004 tsunami played a vital role in preserving Smong narratives, emphasizing the enduring integration of Smong within the cultural repertoire. Younger participants, especially youth/middle-aged individuals, showed innovative reinterpretations, intertwining indigenous knowledge with new modes of understanding. Gender-diverse perspectives revealed the emotional depth embedded in Smong’s narratives. Temporal shifts in Smong narratives emerged, reflecting the uncertain role of Smong in contemporary times. The findings illustrate a complex interplay of generational perspectives, cultural adaptation, gender dynamics, and temporal shifts within the Simeuluean people. Participant narratives provide nuanced insights into lived experiences, contributing to the local context of Smong narratives. This study enhances our understanding of the evolving nature of Smong narratives, emphasizing the importance of preserving the cultural format while developing contemporary applications.