Edueksos: Journal Pendidikan Sosial dan Ekonomi
Vol. 15 No. 01 (2026): EDUEKSOS: Jurnal Pendidikan Sosial dan Ekonomi

Cultural Memory As a Line of Defense In Preserving Cirebon's Multicultural Identity

Suciyadi Ramdhani (UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines the role of material culture in preserving the multicultural identity of the Cirebonese through the lens of cultural materialism, emphasizing the influence of physical infrastructure on cultural values and how material culture objects are internalized into cultural memory to sustain a shared identity. Using qualitative methods, data collection involves observation, interviews, and documentation to identify objects representing multicultural values. The findings reveal that Cirebon's culture stems from its historical ethnic diversity, influenced by its geographical location as a coastal trade hub since the 14th century. The establishment of an Islamic kingdom in the 15th century further shaped society, merging pre-existing Hindu cultural elements with Islamic traditions and those of Chinese and Arab traders. Material culture, including architecture, places of worship, and art, reflects and reinforces this multicultural heritage. These elements serve as carriers of cultural memory, preserve multicultural values, and act as a "line of defense" in maintaining cultural identity on a global scale.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

edueksos

Publisher

Subject

Description

Edueksos: Journal Pendidikan Sosial dan Ekonomi is open access and peer-reviewed journal, investigating and discussing the dynamics of teaching and learning of social education and social-economic problems occuring in the society context of the primary, senior, and higher education level.In ...