The Subak Water Distribution System in Bali; Bridging Tradition, Religiousness and Environmental Sustainability

摘要

A good water resource management is performed through coordinated, integrated, inter-sector, cross disciplinary planning and participation. It is enriched through public participation which are not only bound by law and regulations but also guided by tradition and culture. The subak water distribution system in Bali was practiced since the 8th Century BC, it provide water for beautiful terrace rice fields and fulfill ecosystem water needs. The basic philosophy is named Tri Hita Karana which are: men; ecosystem; and the Almighty. The unit management of a subak is sub-sub-catchment, ranging in area from 27 up to 5,000 hectares. Village meetings are held every 35 days, according to the Bali calendar. Leaders of the organization are Pekaseh; Pekaseh Gede; and Sedahan Agung who are elected for five years term. Obedience to water distribution are agreed and controlled culturally, those who steal water will be fined, and those who steal at night will have higher punishment. In the last few decades there are introductions from 'external' management instruments by the central government that altered this unique system. Objective of the system have shifted from an overall environmental sustainability toward a narrow aim for higher rice production.