Geser-Gorom in Indonesia

People Name:	Geser-Gorom
Country:	Indonesia
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	37,000
World Population:	37,000
Primary Language:	Geser-Gorom
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	2.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Translation Needed
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	No
People Cluster:	Maluku-Central
Affinity Bloc:	Malay Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Geser-Gorom people live on Gorom island and the East end of neighboring Seram island. Both islands are in Maluku Province. The name "Geser-Gorom" (literally, "slide over to Gorom") reveals a deeper meaning. Each ethno-linguistic group on Seram Island has its own name (like the Wemale, Alune, Baulu and Lumoli peoples). However all the people living in Seram are sometimes collectively called the Alifuru (literally, "Original People"). Seram itself is frequently called Nusa Ina (literally, "Mother Island"). So, the name "Geser-Gorom" reflects the belief that they are the portion of the original people of the world who "slid over" to the East to neighboring Gorom island. The Geser-Gorom language is part of a larger linguistic grouping called the Banda-Geser which also includes the Banda, Bati and Watubela. The Geser-Gorom language has three dialects: "Gorom Laut", "Mina Mina Gorom" and "Kelimuri".

What Are Their Lives Like?

Farming and fishing are the two main livelihoods of the Geser-Gorom. Crops include rice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, legumes, sago palm and coconuts. Rice and sago form the main staple. Historically, the Geser-Gorom were famous for their "Kabasa" ceremony, revering the spirits believed to influence the harvest. The Geser-Gorom practice a patrilineal extended family system and newly married couples usually live near the husband's extended family. Fathers typically lead each family and are expected to provide living needs. Wives typically take care of children, cooking and other household duties. A king is assisted by a council leader called Badan Saniri Negeri (Saniri Domestic Agencies). The Council is composed of the customary chief, Soa leaders (landlords who served to overcome the problem of inheritance and land disputes), Kawang (security chief) and Marinyo (interpreter of news). Since the time of Japanese occupation in World War II, the system of leadership is starting to disappear. Nuclear families function as the basic social unit in Geser-Gorom society.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Geser-Gorom hold to Islam. Down through the generations they have applied a mixture of Islamic and tribal law. Alongside orthodox Islam, the Geser-Gorom continue in animistic and mystical beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

On a small scale, the Geser-Gorom need to be acquainted with appropriate technology. They also need more opportunities to improve their work skills. Improving the quality of both formal and informal education could have great value for Geser-Gorom society.