The Influence of Javanese Culture on Hadhrami Community in Coastal Society of Semarang

Abstract

From the end of the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century, Hadhrami immigrants had formed colonies in Semarang, the north coast of Java. They inhabited Arab areas such as Kampung Melayu and Kampung Kauman. In the 1970s to 1980s, due to ecological change and economic problems, some of them left these areas and moved to other areas in Semarang. It caused cultural encounters between Hadhrami and Javanese to become much more intensive. Through literature studies, observations, and interviews, this study aims to identify the influence of Javanese culture on the Hadhrami community in contemporary Semarang. In the process, cultural encounters emerged between hybrid generations which created hybrid cultures. It can be seen by language, fashion, and food. In this context, the hybridity is caused by the history and character of Semarang as a coastal society that is fluid and cosmopolitan.