Sustainable Strategies for Preserving the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Pinisi Shipbuilding in South Sulawesi

Sustainable Strategies for Preserving the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Pinisi Shipbuilding in South Sulawesi
  IJETT-book-cover           
  
© 2025 by IJETT Journal
Volume-73 Issue-10
Year of Publication : 2025
Author : Miftahuljannah, Muhammad Yamin Jinca, Windra Priatna Humang
DOI : 10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V73I10P103

How to Cite?
Miftahuljannah, Muhammad Yamin Jinca, Windra Priatna Humang,"Sustainable Strategies for Preserving the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Pinisi Shipbuilding in South Sulawesi", International Journal of Engineering Trends and Technology, vol. 73, no. 10, pp.22-31, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V73I10P103

Abstract
The Pinisi, a traditional wooden sailing vessel from the Bugis-Makassar maritime tradition in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, was inscribed by UNESCO in 2017 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). Beyond its symbolic and cultural value, the Pinisi plays a crucial role in sustaining local livelihoods and strengthening maritime identity. However, traditional shipyards in Bulukumba face pressing challenges such as limited availability of quality timber, declining interest among younger generations in becoming panrita lopi (master boatbuilders), and insufficient investment. Previous studies have largely focused on technical, cultural, or economic aspects in isolation, leaving a gap in comprehensive preservation strategies. This study integrates a literature review, field observation, and in-depth interviews to explore the conditions of traditional shipbuilding in Bulukumba. Data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach supported by SWOT analysis, enabling the identification of internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats that influence the sustainability of the Pinisi industry. Findings indicate that while UNESCO recognition has reinforced cultural identity and opened economic opportunities—particularly in tourism and creative industries—significant obstacles remain. The scarcity of sustainable raw materials, the threat of knowledge extinction due to generational gaps, and weak policy implementation undermine long-term resilience. The SWOT analysis highlights opportunities for integrating cultural heritage into sustainable maritime development, including education-based regeneration programs, eco-tourism initiatives, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. This study provides a comprehensive framework that bridges cultural preservation with socio-economic development. It contributes academically by filling the gap left by fragmented earlier research and practically by offering strategic recommendations for policymakers, communities, and stakeholders. Ensuring the sustainability of Pinisi shipbuilding requires integrated policies, sustainable resource management, and youth engagement, positioning the Pinisi not only as cultural heritage but also as a driver of resilient maritime economies.

Keywords
Pinisi, traditional shipbuilding, intangible cultural heritage, SWOT analysis, maritime sustainability.

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