Menyemah Kampung: Creating a Harmonic Life with the Sumatran Tiger

The Sumatran tiger is one of the keystone species increasingly under threat. Several traditional communities perceive has an essential role in a broader aspect life; animal constitutes integral part their culture. This study discusses interaction between Malay community around Kerumutan Wildlife Reserve (KWR) Riau, Sumatra, and tigers. We collected data through in-depth interviews with several local leaders recruited by snowball sampling. people wildlife reserve believed that sacred thus should be protected. perceived roles guarding village against evils. To respect presence tiger, KWR performed ritual Menyemah Kampung once year. However, many changes have been taking place change nature people, including ritual. Local people’s perception toward may also affect conservation tiger.