<![CDATA[This study describes and analyzes the perception of indigenous communities in the modernization era regarding the sesan culture in Lampung Pepadun marriages in Kota Alam, North Lampung. The study focuses on sociocultural understanding, the dialectic of shifting sesan forms, and strategies for preserving local wisdom. This descriptive qualitative research utilizes a field case study design. Informants were selected through purposive sampling, involving traditional leaders (penyimbang), indigenous people, and the younger generation. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldana. The results indicate: (1) The community comprehensively understands sesan as a sacred legacy and an embodiment of the Piil Pesengiri philosophy (nemui nyimah and sakai sambayan), functioning as a provision for household independence, proof of family affection, and an upholder of social dignity; (2) There is a polarization of values between traditional preservation and modern pragmatism. Around 20% of couples have modified physical sesan into cash or business capital due to logistical efficiency, inter-ethnic marriages, and economic rationality; (3) The community hopes the core philosophical values of sesan are preserved through flexible implementation to avoid economic burdens, supported by customary institutions, cultural advancement regulations, and cross-generational cultural literacy.]]>
