Philanthropic and ecological values of Merti Desa Tambakbayan tradition in Tambakboyo Village, Tawangsari District, Sukoharjo Regency
Abstract The Javanese tradition is manifested in various forms, one of which is Merti Desa Tambakbayan tradition in Tambakboyo Village, Tawangsari District, Sukoharjo Regency. This annual tradition is a cultural heritage that help to maintain environmental balance. This study seeks to describe the philanthropic and ecological values of Merti Desa Tambakbayan tradition. This research was a case study with traditional event as the object. The data sources were the Merti Desa Tambakbayan events, documents, and interview results with informants. The obtained field data showed the existence of philanthropic and ecological values in Tambakboyo community. These values can be seen from the traditions of having feast and exchanging meals together, and joint activities to clean up the environment around the village regardless of social status. These attitudes are essentials, especially when some members of the society are experiencing economic difficulties due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.