Getting to know Bali is incomplete without mentioning the sturdy men in checkered sarongs who maintain the tranquility of every traditional ceremony.
They are the Pecalang, Bali’s customary police officers who are unique for maintaining security through a spiritual approach and highly respected local wisdom.
What is Pecalang and Its Function?
Pecalang is a traditional security unit tasked with overseeing safety, environmental order, and the socio-cultural environment within Bali's customary village (desa adat) areas.
Based on Hindu teachings, they guard the eight cardinal directions from strategic posts to ensure that the behavior of both residents and visitors remains in harmony with local norms.
Administratively, their position is strengthened by Bali Provincial Regulation No. 3 of 2003, which provides an official mandate to secure village areas and the implementation of religious duties.
Pecalang is a customary security institution that holds significant authority in maintaining the harmony of the social structure in Bali. With a clear legal foundation, Pecalang can perform their functions professionally without abandoning traditional roots.
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The History of Pecalang in Balinese Customary Culture
The presence of Pecalang has been recorded since the 1970s, where they were initially solely responsible for the internal security of the customary village and the smooth running of religious ceremonies.
The formation of this unit is closely related to the existence of desa pekraman or customary villages, which required an independent security system to realize the vision of an orderly village.
Over time, the role of Pecalang has expanded to include involvement in securing large-scale events, including national political agendas such as party meetings.
Today, the existence of Pecalang is protected by law and specifically regulated in regional regulations (Perda). The dedication of Pecalang in maintaining Bali's security is widely recognized by both customary communities and the provincial government.
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Who Can Become a Member of Pecalang?
True to their name, derived from the word for "sharpness," the primary requirement to become a Pecalang is the sharpness of the senses, ranging from sight and smell to a strong intuition for detecting security disturbances.
This sensory capability is crucial when they conduct patrols or rounds throughout the territory, ensuring that every threat can be anticipated quickly and accurately.
Administratively, prospective members must be Hindu, reside in the duty area, be at least 25 years old, of good character, and have no criminal record.
In addition to physical and legal requirements, an individual must obtain a recommendation from the head of the Pecalang through a village meeting or paruman desa as a form of community blessing.
Unique Facts About Pecalang
Behind their firmness in upholding regulations, Pecalang have several unique aspects that distinguish them from modern security officers, including:
1. Pecalang Wear Distinctive Traditional Attire
Pecalang are easily recognized by their traditional uniform consisting of saput poleng (black-and-white checkered cloth), an udeng (headcloth), and a vest that symbolizes the concept of Rwa Bhineda balance.
This attire is a philosophical symbol that they are tasked with maintaining the balance between positive and negative forces in the universe.
2. Pecalang Collaborate with Satpol PP & Polri During Major Festivals
Despite their status as customary officers, Pecalang routinely synergize with the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) and the National Police (Polri) to manage traffic and security during major festivals like Nyepi or Galungan.
This collaboration proves that coordination between formal law and customary law in Bali runs very harmoniously for the comfort of all tourists and residents.
3. Pecalang Serve as a Symbol of Customary Community Solidarity
Becoming a Pecalang is a form of sincere devotion (ngayah) to the village and God without expecting commercial material rewards.
Their presence in every corner of the village is tangible proof of the strong bond of brotherhood and mutual cooperation (gotong royong) among the Balinese people in guarding their homeland.
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To ensure your cultural adventure on the Island of the Gods remains solemn and allows you to witness the wisdom of the Pecalang in action, use the AI Plan Your Trip feature to arrange the perfect visiting schedule.
Take advantage of the MaiA feature, which will provide you with activity recommendations and any information you need, including details about the Pecalang, as well as tourist destinations in Bali during festivals or religious holidays, except for Nyepi Day (Day of Silence).
