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Google Doodle celebrates traditional Balinese irrigation system ‘subak’
Developed around the ninth century, the system is more than just irrigation infrastructure as it involves a cooperative social tradition among farmers.
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Google Doodle celebrates Balinese 'subak' with an illustration by artist Hana Augustine. (Google/File)
B
alinese traditional farming and irrigation system subak was celebrated by Google Doodle on Monday through an illustration of a farmer looking at lush rice paddy fields.
On this day in 2012, subak was recognized by UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
Developed around the ninth century, the system is more than just irrigation infrastructure as it involves a cooperative social tradition among farmers.
Subak is also said to reflect an old philosophy called Tri Hita Karana, which encourages humans to live harmoniously with nature, fellow beings and spiritual beliefs.
Hana Augustine, the Indonesian-based artist behind the doodle, said she wanted to highlight the role of subak farmers.
“These farmers are often overlooked, yet we consume the harvest of their labor daily,” Hana said.
She hoped the illustration would help people learn about subak, just like she did when researching for her artwork.
“When people travel to Indonesia or other countries and see this irrigation system in rice fields, I hope they say, 'Hey! Did you know that subak came from Indonesia?'” (wir/kes)
