Toponymy of Transmigration Villages in North Bengkulu,

Abstract

Toponymy, the study of place names, provides insights into cultural identity, historical narratives, and social interactions. In Indonesia, with its rich cultural diversity, toponymy reflects both local traditions and migratory histories. This research focuses on the toponymy of 39 transmigration villages in North Bengkulu Regency, Indonesia, examining how village names reflect the experiences and identities of transmigrants from Java and Bali.
Understanding these names is essential for grasping the complexities of cultural integration and the socio-economic transformations accompanying such migrations. The study aims to uncover the significance of these names in the context of local culture and community integration, highlighting the interplay between identity and place.
The primary objectives are to identify the meanings and origins of the village names and to analyze the social dynamics between 39 transmigrants and local residents. A qualitative approach is employed, utilizing interviews with participants from each village, participatory observations, and document analysis to gather comprehensive data. By engaging with community members, the study seeks to capture a nuanced understanding of how names resonate within the collective memory and identity of both migrants and locals.
Findings from this research are expected to reveal how village names serve as symbols of collective identity and reflect the hopes and aspirations of the communities. Additionally, the study aims to inform local development policies by emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity in planning processes.
Results: 3-5 villages will be sampled for this study. For example, Sido Urip, formerly Desa Karang Anyar, was renamed after a "pagu beluk" outbreak in 1935. Community leaders promised to change the name if the outbreak ended, which it did. Sido Urip means "to become alive."