Ili-Ili: A Local Knowledge of Water Management in Temangung Regency, Central Java

Abstract

Water is the most important resource for human life. Not only for households, but water also has an important role in agricultural activities. An irrigation system with the local wisdom of the local community is present to support the sustainability of rice fields which has been known for a long time. But today, water is becoming an expensive commodity that is always commercialized. Water has also been a source of conflict in some places. In Temanggung Regency, local people know the existence of ili-ili, an informal institution that plays a role in regulating the irrigation for rice fields during the dry season. Not only for agricultural rice fields, but ili-ili also regulates the distribution of water to households fairly and without conflict. However, recently no more young people have continued these democratic and fair water management systems. This article uses the historical method, which emphasizes sources analysis and observations. This study proposes a solution to support the continuity of the traditional institution. The local government needs to support by making the water regulators part of the village government so that each community are able to enjoy the water together without causing new conflicts.