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In the Tradition of Going to Sea, several materials and equipment are used to perform the ceremony. These materials not only serve practical functions but also hold deep symbolic significance for the Malay community, particularly in aspects of spirituality and beliefs about the universe. The following are some of the materials used in this ritual:

Offerings (Sesaji – Food Offerings)

Nasi Tumpeng: Typically, nasi tumpeng, decorated with various side dishes, is used as a symbol of blessings and prosperity. This rice is often arranged in a cone shape and adorned with vegetables or eggs.

Ikan (Fish): Fish, which serves as the primary source of food and livelihood for fishermen, is often a central offering in this ceremony.

Buah-buahan (Fruits): Fruits such as bananas, coconuts, and other local fruits are also included as offerings. These fruits symbolize the abundance of nature’s resources.

Keris or Traditional Weapons: Occasionally, a keris or other traditional weapon is used as a symbol of protection and bravery. This weapon also represents strength in facing challenges at sea.

Bunga (Flowers): Flowers, particularly jasmine or roses, are commonly used as symbols of purity and sacred hope. These flowers may be cast into the sea after prayers are recited.

Maritime Equipment

Perahu or Sampan (Boat or Canoe)

The boat or sampan is an essential tool used in this ceremony, as it is the primary vessel for going to sea. Fishermen usually use their boats in the ritual to carry offerings into the sea.

Jala or Jaring (Fishing Net)

The fishing net is frequently brought by fishermen as it is the main tool for catching fish. It also symbolizes effort and hard work in seeking sustenance.

Cahaya Lampu (Pelita – Lanterns or Oil Lamps)

Lanterns or oil lamps are used to provide light during the ceremony, especially at night. This light symbolizes life and the hope that fishermen’s livelihood will be made easier.

Natural Elements

Air Laut (Seawater)

Seawater is a key element in this tradition, as it is where offerings are placed and represents the vastness and greatness of nature.

Tanah or Pasir (Soil or Sand)

Occasionally, soil or sand is also used as a symbol of fertility and harmony between land and sea.

Other Ritual Items

Tangkai Kelapa (Coconut Stalks)

Coconut stalks are often used in this ritual to symbolize the connection between humans and nature. They are also a representation of sincerity in seeking blessings.

Kain Putih (White Cloth)

White cloth is frequently used in the ceremony as a symbol of purity and spiritual cleansing. It may be used to cover offerings or as a protective element during the ritual.

The Tradition of Going to Sea is a ceremonial practice deeply embedded in the Malay community, particularly among those living in coastal areas and fishing villages. This ritual is performed with great respect for the sea, which is considered a source of life, and aims to strengthen the bond between humans and nature. The ceremony seeks blessings and protection for fishermen before they embark on their journey to sea. Below is the general process of conducting this tradition.

Initial Preparation

Cleansing Oneself and Equipment: Before beginning the ceremony, fishermen and participants cleanse themselves, purify their hearts, and clean their boats, nets, and fishing tools. This act is meant to ensure that all items used in the ceremony are pure and respected.

Preparation of Offerings: Offerings (sesaji) such as nasi tumpeng, fish, fruits, flowers, and sometimes a keris (traditional dagger) or other weapons as symbols of protection are carefully prepared.

Selection of Date and Time: The ceremony is usually conducted on auspicious days according to traditional calendars, such as during a full moon or when the weather is calm. This timing is believed to bring good fortune and abundant fish catch.

Ceremonial Rituals on Land

Prayers and Supplications: Before setting out to sea, a community elder or religious leader leads prayers to seek blessings from God, asking for safety, smooth fishing, and protection from harm.

Chanting of Mantras or Traditional Poetry: In some Malay communities, mantras or traditional poetry (syair) are recited as part of the ceremony to attract blessings and protection. This is also a gesture of respect for nature and the spirits of the sea.

Setting Out to Sea

Bringing the Offerings to the Sea: The prepared offerings are transported to the sea, usually using boats or sampans. The entire community or family participates in this procession, with some boarding the boats while others remain on the shore to witness the ritual.

Releasing the Offerings into the Sea: The food, fruits, and flowers are gently cast into the sea as a symbol of gratitude and respect for the ocean and its spirits. This act is also a form of prayer for fishermen to receive abundant blessings and protection.

Scattering Flowers and Offering Prayers: Flowers, particularly jasmine or roses, are thrown into the sea as a symbol of hope and prayer for safety. Some traditions also involve the release of symbolic objects such as coconuts or eggs into the water.

Awaiting Blessings

Returning the Boat to Shore: Once the ceremony is completed, the boats return to shore, carrying the prayers and hopes for the safety of fishermen while at sea. Upon arrival, participants gather on the beach for a final prayer and to pay tribute to the sea.

Feast or Communal Gathering: After the Tradition of Going to Sea, a communal meal or small feast is often held as a sign of gratitude. This gathering helps to strengthen relationships within the community and celebrate unity and shared blessings.

Closing of the Ceremony

Expressing Gratitude and Final Prayers: The ceremony concludes with a prayer of gratitude for the safety and sustenance provided by the sea. The community elder also reminds fishermen to protect the environment and uphold the customary traditions with respect.

Celebration or Small Festivity: In some communities, a small celebration or gathering is held after the ceremony, where food and seafood are shared as a token of thankfulness to God and the sea.

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