
Simalungun people
The Simalungun people are an ethnic group native to North Sumatra, Indonesia. They are part of the larger Batak community, traditionally practicing agriculture, especially rice farming. Known for their rich cultural traditions, they maintain distinctive language, rituals, and arts, including carved wooden houses and musical instruments. Socially, they emphasize strong family bonds and community cooperation. Many Simalungun also practice Christianity, reflecting historical influences, though they retain certain ancestral customs. Their identity is rooted in both their cultural heritage and regional environment, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Indonesia’s ethnolinguistic landscape.