Preservation of Tradition in The Process of Making Anak Umbang: The Main Musical Instrument of Saba Dance Performance

Anak Umbang is a special musical instrument used in the performance of the Saba Dance that originates from the state of Terengganu. This musical instrument needs to be played to complete the performance of the Saba Dance. The medical ritual in the performance of the Saba Dance in ancient times would not be held without this Anak Umbang. However, Anak Umbang is still played even though the medical ritual is no longer performed in the Saba Dance performance. This study aims to identify the element of tradition in the process of making Anak Umbang. This study uses qualitative methods and was carried out through an ethnographic approach. The data collection process involved interview techniques and participatory observation with informants. Document and library research was also carried out to obtain additional data and information. Through the implementation of this study, the findings clearly show that the local communities emphasize multiple elements of tradition in the process of making Anak Umbang. The local communities adhere to the tradition of making Anak Umbang, which has been practiced by ancestors to ensure that the authenticity of the main musical instrument played in the Saba Dance performance since 1718 can be maintained. The authenticity of Anak Umbang which has been preserved until now has become one of the heritages that have a high aesthetic value.