Someah Hade Ka Semah – A Principle of Sundanese Hospitality
Understanding ‘Someah Hade Ka Semah’
‘Someah Hade Ka Semah’ is a core principle in Sundanese culture that emphasizes good manners and hospitality toward guests. It encourages people to be kind, friendly, and welcoming, ensuring that guests feel happy—even if they are strangers.
The term someah reflects key traits of Sundanese personality: politeness, friendliness, and openness. Moreover, this principle is not just a social norm but a deeply ingrained cultural value.
According to Dasrun Hidayat and Hanny Hafiar in their study “Cultural Values of Someah in the Communication Behavior of the Sundanese Ethnic Community” (2019), the someah culture has become a distinctive identity, an icon, and even a brand personality of the Sundanese people. Clearly, this value plays a significant role in shaping the Sundanese way of life.
Linguistic Representation of ‘Someah’ in Everyday Speech
The Sundanese language strongly reflects someah through common expressions like “punten” and “mangga”, which people frequently use in daily conversations.
If you hear someone say “punten” (excuse me), followed by a response “mangga” (please/go ahead), chances are, you’re among Sundanese speakers.
The Meaning of ‘Punten’ and ‘Mangga’
Dasrun and Hanny (2019) explain:
- “Punten” signifies humility and respect. People use it when asking for permission, requesting help, inquiring about something, or apologizing.
- “Mangga” conveys politeness and openness. It is commonly used to offer something, invite someone, or grant permission.
Even from just these two words, the Sundanese brand personality—friendly and respectful—clearly emerges.
Sundanese People: Friendly & Humorous
Furthermore, the Sundanese are widely known for their warm smiles and great sense of humor.
“As observed, their humor makes them easily sociable, even with non-Sundanese communities around them,” Dasrun and Hanny state.
This someah culture must be preserved in daily life. By practicing it consistently, Sundanese people help create a harmonious society wherever they live.
Governor Ridwan Kamil’s Message on ‘Someah Hade Ka Semah’
Former Governor of West Java, Ridwan Kamil, strongly encouraged Sundanese people living outside West Java to uphold the values of someah.
“My message is: be someah hade ka semah, always seek compromise, and use kind words. Sundanese people in Lombok, for example, are like long-term travelers,” he said during the Tepang Sono gathering with Sundanese residents in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), on March 20, 2022.
Ridwan Kamil emphasized that Sundanese people love peace and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Additionally, he highlighted another key Sundanese philosophy:
The Philosophy of ‘Silih Asih, Silih Asah, Silih Asuh, Silih Wawangi’
- Silih asih → Mutual love and care.
- Silih asah → Mutual learning and intellectual growth.
- Silih asuh → Mutual guidance and support.
- Silih wawangi → Encouraging positive influence and maintaining a good reputation.
He provided an example of silih wawangi in communication:
“Speak kindly or remain silent.”
This principle serves as a reminder for Sundanese people to maintain someah culture in their daily interactions, reinforcing Sundanese heritage and pride through their behavior.
The Importance of Preserving ‘Someah Hade Ka Semah’
Someah Hade Ka Semah is more than just hospitality; it represents the Sundanese way of life. It teaches:
- Respect & Warmth – Always treat guests kindly, regardless of their background.
- Openness & Humility – Welcome people with a generous heart.
- Harmony & Peacefulness – Avoid conflicts and build positive relationships.
Ultimately, this cultural wisdom has made the Sundanese well-respected and admired, both within and outside their homeland. By continuing this tradition, the Sundanese people ensure that their rich culture thrives and inspires future generations.
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