Pandji Pragiwaksono Apologizes to Toraja Ancestors After Joke Backlash

Jakarta – Comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono has completed a customary hearing following jokes he made regarding Torajan culture on Tuesday. Pandji was sanctioned to pay a fine of one pig and five chickens and will subsequently undergo a ritual of apology to Torajan ancestors today.

Customary Sanctions and Apology

“Yes, there was already a customary hearing. Tomorrow (today), an apology to the ancestors,” stated customary judge, Yusuf Sura’ Tandirerung, as reported by detikSulsel on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Yusuf explained that Pandji received a light sanction due to his unintentional offense and subsequent apology. The fine consists of one pig and five chickens as an offering to the ancestors in the Pa’buaran Tongkonan Kaero area, Sangalla’.

Did You Know? The customary ritual, known as ma’bua’, is not only a restoration of the Torajan tribe’s dignity but also a promise to the ancestors.

“We did not impose a heavy sanction because he did not do it intentionally and has apologized. The sanction is only one pig and five chickens. The pig and one chicken will be used tomorrow for the ritual of apology to the ancestors. Four chickens have already been submitted,” Yusuf added.

The Significance of the Ritual

Yusuf stated that, beyond restoring dignity, the ma’bua’ ritual serves as a pledge to the ancestors. Should the individual repeat the offense, they will be distanced from blessings. The ritual will be held in the Pa’buaran Tongkonan Kaero area, Sangalla’.

“Tomorrow’s (today’s) ritual will not be at the tongkonan, but at Pa’buaran Tongkonan Kaero. The ritual we will carry out, in short, is a restoration of harmony and a promise to the ancestors. If one repeats the same mistake, that person will be distanced from blessings,” Yusuf explained.

Previously, Pandji also conveyed an apology before the Torajan community and traditional leaders, admitting his mistake in performing material about the Rambu Solo ritual without proper understanding.

Expert Insight: The imposition of a customary fine, involving livestock, highlights the importance of respecting cultural traditions and the potential consequences of unintentionally causing offense. The ritual of apology underscores the deep connection between the living and ancestral realms within Torajan society.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What sanction did Pandji Pragiwaksono receive?

Pandji Pragiwaksono was sanctioned to pay a fine of one pig and five chickens.

Where will the ritual of apology take place?

The ritual of apology will take place in the Pa’buaran Tongkonan Kaero area, Sangalla’.

Why was Pandji given a light sanction?

Pandji was given a light sanction because his offense was unintentional and he apologized.

How important is it to be mindful of cultural sensitivities when performing comedy?