top of page

Reducing conflict based on history education and oral traditions of Atoin Pah Meto in West Timor

Authors

Andreas Ande, Supianto

Abstract

This study explores how the historical education and oral traditions of the Atoin Pah Meto people of West Timor serve as cultural resources for conflict reduction and local history learning. Using a qualitative historical approach, data were gathered through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with traditional, community, and religious leaders, and analysis of relevant documents. The data were processed through heuristics, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography to ensure credibility. Findings show that the Atoin Pah Meto sustain a rich repertoire of rituals and oral narratives that embody collective memory and moral guidance. Central to their worldview is the philosophy nekaf-mese ma ansaof-mese “one heart, one soul” which reinforces solidarity, mutual responsibility, and peaceful coexistence. Practices such as the Oko Mama betel-nut ceremony and ritual speech acts illustrate the principles of symbolic interactionism, revealing how shared symbols and interaction continually produce social cohesion. Integrating these traditions into history education can strengthen identity, environmental care, and culturally rooted peacebuilding.


Keywords

Social Harmony, Learning Resources, Atoin Pah Meto, West Timor, Reduce Conflict

Download Article

Date Published

27 December 2025

How to Cite

Ande, A., & Supianto (2025). Reducing conflict based on history education and oral traditions of Atoin Pah Meto in West Timor. Historical Encounters, 12(1), 50-65. https://doi.org/10.52289/hej12.105

_______________________________________

  • Issue Published 17 October 2025

  • Double Blind Peer Reviewed

  • Author Retains Copyright

  • Distributed under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0​ License

HEJ Logo

ISSN 2203-7543 | DOI: 10.52289/ISSN22037543

© 2014-2022 HERMES History Education Research Network

School of Education, University of Newcastle, Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia

UON Logo
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
bottom of page