In the rolling hills and coastal waters of Campalagian, Polewali Mandar Regency, a unique maritime trade practice once thrived, connecting communities and fostering economic growth. Known as pa’garasik, this traditional system of consignment trade was built on trust and cultural values, according to a recent study published in ‘Jurnal Humanitas: Katalisator Perubahan dan Inovator Pendidikan’ (Journal of Humanitas: Catalyst for Change and Innovation in Education). Nurul Rahma, a researcher from Universitas Negeri Makassar, delved into the history and impact of pa’garasik, shedding light on its significance and the lessons it holds for modern maritime sectors.
Pa’garasik, which operated from the 1950s to the 1970s, was a system where goods were entrusted to sailors without written contracts. “It was a trust-based consignment trade,” Rahma explains. “Goods were handed over to sailors, who would then sell them in distant ports and return with the proceeds.” This system relied heavily on values such as amanah (trustworthiness), siri’ na pacce (honor and empathy), honesty, and social solidarity.
At its peak, pa’garasik connected Campalagian with regions as far as Kalimantan, Nusa Tenggara, and even the Malay Peninsula. The trade involved a variety of commodities, including agricultural products, textiles, and handicrafts. This not only facilitated the distribution of goods but also improved local livelihoods and expanded social-cultural networks.
The commercial impacts of pa’garasik were significant. The trust-based system reduced the need for formal contracts and legal frameworks, lowering transaction costs and speeding up trade. Moreover, the practice fostered a sense of community and mutual responsibility, which in turn enhanced economic resilience.
For modern maritime sectors, pa’garasik offers valuable insights and opportunities. The emphasis on trust and cultural values can inspire community-based economic models, promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. Additionally, the historical significance of pa’garasik presents opportunities for maritime cultural tourism, attracting visitors interested in the region’s rich maritime heritage.
However, the practice declined by the late 1970s due to modernization, centralized development policies, and shifting aspirations of younger generations. Despite this, the cultural values of pa’garasik remain relevant today. As Rahma notes, “The values embedded in pa’garasik can inspire community-based economic models, local history education, and maritime cultural tourism.”
In conclusion, pa’garasik is a testament to the power of trust and cultural values in fostering economic growth and social cohesion. By preserving and promoting this intangible cultural heritage, the maritime sector can enrich its legacy and contribute to sustainable development.