An Analysis of Cultural Sustainability in Indonesia’s Batak Toba Oral Folklore

Abstract

This study aims to examine the conservation of Batak Toba oral folklore in sustaining the cultural identity and local wisdom of North Sumatra. Using a mixed-method design, the research combined qualitative exploration of folklore practices with quantitative analysis employing SmartPLS. Respondents were selected purposively from three groups - lecturers, students, and community members - in Medan City, North Sumatra, totaling 60 participants. Data collection involved questionnaires, interviews, and documentation, while analysis focused on both thematic interpretation and structural equation modeling. The findings revealed that Batak Toba oral folklore is being increasingly abandoned by younger generations due to the influence of modern lifestyles and limited integration into education and social life. Quantitative results indicated that Educational Integration (β = 0.650, p < 0.001) and Digital Media Utilization (β = 0.394, p < 0.01) are the most significant factors in sustaining cultural continuity. In contrast, Community Awareness, Community Participation, and Government Regulation Support showed no significant effects. Real efforts identified in conservation practices include the enactment of regional regulations, integration of folklore into school curricula, increased community participation, and the involvement of youth, cultural practitioners, and academics in reconstructing folklore through social activities and digital platforms. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach combining formal education and digital innovation, supported by effective policy and community collaboration, is essential for revitalizing Batak Toba oral folklore. These insights contribute theoretically to linguistic-based conservation studies and, practically, to policy formulation and cultural sustainability strategies.