Tales of two cities: the life of manggaraian diaspora in Makassar and Samarinda

This article aims to identify Manggarai culture as an effort of the Manggarai diaspora in Makassar and Samarinda to preserve the relationship with their place of origin. This article's research question is how the Manggarai diaspora uses cultural elements in the two cities to maintain relations with their native culture? The anthropological approach is used to see how the Manggarai diaspora maintains their relationship with Manggarai culture, while identity theory is used to see cultural relations as an effort to maintain Manggarai identity. Primary data was obtained by interviewing five respondents in each city, while secondary data came from journal articles and books that support the research theme. The research shows that the formation of regional organizations, the implementation of traditional ceremonies, and social activities are tools to stay connected to their original culture.