South Sulawesi’s Vanishing High Priests

The word Bissu refers to an ancient Bugis priest from the calabai community of eunuch-like people who once played an important role in South Sulawesi. The La Galigo scripture refers to the Bissu as having descended from the gods, and as such, were the anointed high priests of holy rituals. In Bugis royal hierarchy, a Bissu served as the king’s spiritual advisor. Today, however, their influence is fast waning, reduced to being called heretics in some communities. A special Tempo English Edition report by Tempo correspondents Irmawati and Andi Pajung and photographer Ayu Ambong.