jismart2023036: Bajo Architectural Wisdom in Navigating Rising Seas in Indonesia

Abstract

The global climate crisis continues to intensify. Coastal communities are facing escalating threats from rising sea levels. This paper discusses the vernacular architecture practice and wisdom embodied in the Bajo people to inspire holistic strategies for sustainable coastal development as opposed to the approach involving a large-scale project that seems to aspire to dominate environment instead of being in tune with the environment such as the Giant Garuda Sea Wall planned to be constructed in Jakarta. The paper methodology encompasses qualitative techniques, incorporating available literature and documentary sources related to the architectural and innovative design practices of the Bajo people in response to rising sea levels. The Bajo people vernacular approach, on the other hand, is characterised by flexibility, cultural preservation, and respect for the environment. This approach prompts us to rethink the perception of environmental forces and resilience in the face of environmental change.