Ethnohistorical Study of the Culture of the Buay Belunguh Clan in Tanggamus Regency

Abstract

This research investigates the origin and historical development of the Buay Belunguh Clan Principality (Kepaksian Marga Buay Belunguh) located in Tanggamus Regency, Lampung Province. The principality has a strong historical connection to the ancient Sekala Beghak Kingdom, which was founded in the 17th century on the slopes of Mount Pesagi in West Lampung. The emergence of this principality was driven by a sequence of migrations, led by influential figures such as Sulaiman, known as Singa Besakh, a direct descendant of King Begukh Sakti. Through an ethnohistorical method, this study traces the phases of migration from West Lampung to the Tanggamus region. Data collection techniques include field observation, interviews, and analysis of historical documents, aiming to uncover the cultural practices and social organization of the Lampung indigenous communities especially within the frameworks of the Sai Batin and Pepadun traditions. The results indicate that the Buay Belunguh Clan Principality serves as a continuing expression of local cultural heritage and traditional leadership that remains relevant in present-day Kagungan, Tanggamus.