1. Origin

The origin of Ali Oma game is still unknown. However, it has existed since the period of Dutch colonialism.  Ali Oma is a game that resemble to that of petak umpet (seek and hide) played by children in Pekanbaru, Indoensia and its environs. During the process, Ali Oma song is performed to intersperse the game. Therefore, the game which called initially ‘main sembunyi sembunyian’ (hiding) is named as the name of the song.

2. Players

Ali Oma is performed by 5-20 children whose ages are in between 7-13 years. Nevertheless, children, adults, men and women can take part in the game alike.

3. Place and Tools

Ali Oma game requires simple tools; wall and big wood in house yard. Those tools will function as castle. Since the players who participate in the game are numerous, this game usually takes place in a big square or yard.      

4. Rule and Process of the Game

Prior to playing Ali Oma, lottery which called ‘gambreng’ by local resident precedes the game. Each player lays their hand downward or upward simultaneously. Player with different hand’s position will be in safe position. The same process is repeated so that two players left. To choose a person of two who will keep the benteng (Castle), another lottery called suit is performed. The looser in suit will be castle keeper which usually called jadi.

Afterward, the jadi faces the castle with his eye covered by his hand, while others (penyuruk) will look for a place where they can hide. The given time for hiding is Ali Oma song duration. Subsequently, the jadi is demanded to seek the penyuruk one after another. If all penyuruk are found, the first penyuruk caught will replace the jadi.  However, if a penyuruk can attack (touch) castle before jadi finds all penyuruk, the jadi will be castle keeper for a second time.

5. Cultural Values

Ali Oma game offers ranges of considerable values as reflected in fairness, cooperation, and hard work. All penyuruk are expected to cooperate by attacking castle before jadi finds the others. Endeavor to reach castle signifies hardwork value and accepting the role as jadi or penyuruk indicates fairness.

Insert your comment here :