FROM RITUAL TO IDENTITY: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF THE WEDDING DAIS IN ACEH'S CUSTOMARY LIFE

The Acehnese wedding dais is a key cultural symbol, reflected through its design, color (red, yellow, green), and gold/red embroidery featuring floral and geometric motifs. Traditionally used in marriage ceremonies, it also appears in other customs like khitan (circumcision), peusijuek, and seven-month rituals. This qualitative research uses observation, interviews, and visual documentation to explore its broader cultural roles. Findings show that the dais functions beyond decoration—as a medium for cultural preservation and public education. It is also displayed in museums and customary offices.