Hunt whale in the village of
Lamalera, Lembata District, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia, has become
a tradition for generations since the 16th century when the ancestors of the
Lamalera occupy the village.
This tradition has delivered Lamalera village that
is known the world community. Hunt whale is not an easy task because it
requires effort and determination in the fight in the middle of the ocean. The hunt
whale, the fishermen Lamalera just using traditional tools, the wooden boats
and spears. Hunting whale tradition runs from May 1 through October 31 every
year. Preparation ritual begins on April 29, with the implementation of the
rite among fishermen with landlords in the Rock Pope. On May 1, Opening Mass
held for the blessing of the equipment to hunt whales. The hunt whale, the
fishermen sometimes dragged down the middle of Savu Sea even to Australia.
Although the challenge is severe, the fishermen Lamalera persisted until the
whale can be conquered and brought to shore. Whale meat is distributed to the entire
population according to a family member services representative in the hunt
whale. Besides meat, whale oil used as massage oil, medicinal materials, and
fuel for the kerosene lamp. The village Lamalera now has become one of tourist
destinations. Every year, many tourists from abroad who came to watch the hunt whale.
