Digital Preservation of Traditional Games: The Role of Community Pioneers in Yogyakarta

Traditional games have long been an essential part of children's lives, providing entertainment and facilitating physical, cognitive, and social development. In earlier times, before the rise of digital technology, children engaged in traditional games that required physical activity and social interaction, such as gobak sodor, engklek, and dakon. These games fostered creativity, cooperation, and cultural appreciation. However, with the advancement of information technology and the proliferation of online games, digital entertainment has primarily replaced traditional games. Today, children spend more time playing online games on smartphones and other devices, which, while entertaining, have been associated with various adverse effects, including reduced social interaction, decreased physical activity, and potential health issues such as eye strain and joint pain (Harahap, 2023). This shift raises concerns about preserving cultural heritage, as traditional games are integral to Indonesia's rich cultural diversity and identity.Several studies have examined the significance of traditional games in cultural preservation. For instance, Ikawati et al.(2018)developed a video-based learning medium for Sasak traditional games, concluding that digital documentation could be a viable method for cultural preservation. However, their study focused solely on video-based media without integrating broader digital dissemination methods such as social media engagement. Najmi et al.(2016)explored open spaces for traditional game preservation in Bogor, highlighting the lack of adequate play areas but providing limited insight into digital preservation strategies. Hadi et al.(2018)studied the role of traditional games in early childhood education,emphasizing traditionalpreservation methods through direct engagement rather than digital platforms. These studies underscore the importance of traditional game preservation but indicate a gap in utilizing digital technology comprehensively for cultural preservation.Despite previous efforts, there remains a need for a more systematic approach to preserving traditional games in the digital era. Existing research has primarily focused on traditionalpreservation methods or limited digital initiatives. This study addresses this limitation by exploring the role of community pioneers in Yogyakarta in promoting traditional games through digital preservation methods. Unlike previous research, this study integrates digital strategies such as online documentation, interactive media, and social media advocacy to enhance the accessibility and sustainability of traditional games. By leveraging these modern tools, the study seeks to develop a more effective and engaging method for preserving traditionalcultural heritage.The scientific merit of this study lies in its exploration of digital preservation as a means of sustaining traditional games in contemporary society. This research contributes to the growing discourse on cultural preservation by demonstrating how digital platforms can effectively maintain and promote traditionalgames among younger generations. It also highlights the role of local community pioneers in championing these efforts, illustrating the intersection between cultural heritage and technological advancements.The primary objective of this study is to analyze community pioneers' efforts in Yogyakarta to preserve traditional games digitally. Specifically, it examines their strategies, challenges, and successes in ensuring these games remain relevant and accessible. The structure of this article includes an in-depth literature review on traditional game preservation, an analysis of community-led initiatives, a discussion on digital preservation techniques, and conclusions on the effectiveness of these approaches. Through this study, we aim to provide valuable insights into how cultural heritage can be preserved in an era dominated by digital technology.

This study employs a qualitative research methodology with a case study approach. According to Gerring(2001), a qualitative approach using case studies is best understood as a way to define a case rather than a method for analyzing or modeling causal relationships. Creswell & Creswel(2018), as cited in (Irmansyah et al., 2020), describes the case study approach as a strategic method for thoroughly investigating a process, activity, or event within a specific group.The research was conducted through field observations and in-depth interviews across 14 districts (Kemantren) in Yogyakarta. The primary subjects of this research were community pioneers who are actively involved in preserving traditional games through digital means. These individuals are members of Yogyakarta's Indonesian Community Sports Committee (KORMI).Data collection techniques included direct observation, documentation, and unstructured interviews. Observations were made to understand the actual practices in preserving traditional games digitally—documentation involved collecting written, audio, and visual records related to these activities. Unstructured interviews were conducted to gather perspectives from community pioneers regarding their strategies, challenges, and motivations in digital preservation. The open-ended nature of these interviews allowed for a deeper exploration of the subject matter, as Smith(2016)recommended.The data analysis was carried out manually using a descriptive approach. The collected data from observations, documentation, and interviews were systematically analyzed to identify patterns and key strategies employed by community pioneers in digital preservation. This analysis provided insights into how traditional games are maintained and promoted in the digital era. The study concludes with recommendations for further initiatives in cultural preservation through digital strategies.</p>

This study explores the efforts of community pioneers in Yogyakarta to preserve traditional games through digital platforms. The findings indicate that once a fundamental part of childhood, traditional games are gradually being replaced by digital entertainment. However, local community pioneers actively sustain these cultural practices through innovative digital strategies. The following sections highlight the key findings of this study.I. Community Pioneers and Their Role in Digital PreservationCommunity pioneers play a significant role in preserving traditional games in Yogyakarta. These individuals, organized under the Indonesian Community Sports Committee (KORMI), work at the district level (Kemantren) to ensure that traditional games remain accessible to the younger generation. Their activities include organizing events, digital documentation, and social media engagement. The data collected through interviews reveal that pioneers are highly committed to cultural preservation and seek to integrate traditional games into modern digital platforms to reach a wider audience.Table 1. Kemantrenin Yogyakarta CityNo.KemantrenArea (Km2)Percentage (%)1.Mantrijeron2,618,02.Kraton1,404,33.Mergangsan2,317,14.Umbulharjo8,1225,05.Kotagede3,079.46.Gondokusuman3,9712,27.Danurejan1,103,48.Pakualaman0,631,99.Gondomanan1,123,410.Ngampilan0,822,511.Wirobrajan1,765,412.Gedongtengen0,963,013.Jetis1,725,314.Tegalrejo2,919,0Source: BPS Yogyakarta City (2023)The findings in the field regarding the research of community pioneers in preserving digital culture through traditional games in Yogyakarta City obtained several documents and interviews from community pioneer informants in the neighborhood of Yogyakarta City. Interview results from community pioneer nformants in the neighborhood of Yogyakarta City. Based on Daerah Istimewa YogyakartaGovernor Regulation No. 25 of 2019 (Governor of Yogyakarta Special Region, 2019), the word Sub-district was changed to Kemantrenin Yogyakarta, starting in 2019. Yogyakarta City consists of 14 Kemantren, and the names of the Kemantrencan be seen in Table 1.The word preservation in KBBI (2016) means preservation. Cultural digital preservation can be interpreted as cultural preservation in digital form. The culture referred to here is traditional games because traditional games are part of recreational sports resulting from the cultural heritage of hereditary ancestors. In Yogyakarta, several community pioneers spread across 14 Kemantrenand formed a forum called KORMI(Indonesian Community Sports Committee) Yogyakarta City. Why do traditional games need to be preserved? Because traditional games have now been forgotten by many people, especially young people and children. This is as stated by Mr. Budiyono, a community pioneer from KemantrenGedongtengen.“Traditional games are non-achievement sports; every Kemantrenshould preserve them because they are the ancestors' cultural heritage so that children and the next generation know about traditional games. Besides, traditional games have many benefits; they can be for physical health and entertainment too” (interview, June 27, 2023).Figure 1.Dingklik oglak-aglik(Children of KemantrenGedongtengen)Source: Youtube (2024)Mr. Budiyono'sstatement implies that he is very concerned with traditional games, so he wants them to be preserved because they are beneficial for physical health and entertainment (Figure 1). Figure 1 is a Dingklik oglak-aglikgame played by children from the GedongtengenKemantren. Dingklikoglak-aglikis played by at east 3 people. The game's rules are that one leg is linked to the other while singing Dingklikoglak-aglik. Whoever's leg is off the hook loses (YoutubeSource, Traditional Games-KemantrenGedongtengen).A community pioneer also conveyed the same thing from the ILDI organization part of KORMI; he is the head of the ILDI organization in Yogyakarta City, Rustiani. The ILDI organization is a sports organization that accommodates the community's creativity to live a healthier and fitter life.“Today's children play online games; they no longer play traditional games like the ones played by children in the past. I want traditional games to be preserved because traditional games are the cultural heritage of our ancestors” (interview, June 28, 2023).The community pioneer from KemantrenJetis, Mrs. Sri Sulastri, also gave a response about the importance of traditional games:“In KemantrenJetis, traditional games activities are held every year, whether for performances or competitions. This traditional game competition is between RWs in the KemantrenJetis neighborhood” (interview, June 27, 2023).Figure 2.Jamuran(Children of KemantrenJetis)Source: Youtube (2024)The statement of the community pioneer from KemantrenJetis shows that traditional games are crucial so that children today know and like traditionalgames. As in Figure 2, it shows children from KemantrenJetis playing Jamuran. Jamuranis a traditional game from Yogyakarta, which at least five children can play. This traditional game is played while singing the Jamuransong. One child stands in the center among the children who hold hands around him.</p> <p>Responding to the importance of traditional games, several community pioneers from other Kemantrenalso stated the same thing, that traditional games need to be preserved so that children, adolescents, and future generations can still know and even like traditional games from the cultural heritage of the ancestors.II. Digital Documentation and Content CreationCreating digital content is one of the most effective methods used in digital preservation. Community pioneers produce videos, tutorials, and guides explaining traditional games' history, rules, and cultural significance. These materials are uploaded to online platforms such as YouTube and social media to ensure accessibility. For instance, in Mantrijeron, digital documentation efforts have resulted in a growing collection of archived traditional games, preserving their historical and cultural context.Creating digital content such as videos, tutorials, or guides of traditional games and sharing them through online platforms can help expand the reach and sustain people's interest in the games. These contents can explain the rules of the game, its history, and the cultural values associated with it. A community pioneer conveyed this from KemantrenMantrijeron, Mr. Bambang Srigati:“In KemantrenMantrijeron, traditional games have been documented in the form of videos; this aims to preserve traditional games because these are the ancestors' cultural heritage”(interview, June 28, 2023).Mr. Bambang's statement abovecan be proven by traditional games that can be seen on YouTube. This digital content creation is also carried out by community pioneers from other Kemantrenin Yogyakarta City.Figure 3.Lek wolak walik(Mantrijeronvideo collection)Source: Youtube (2024) Figure 3 is part of the video collection of traditional games from KemantrenMantrijeron. Lek wolak walik is a song to start a game, such as hompimpah. The lyrics of Lek wolak walik, Lek wolak walik seje dewe dadi. Whoever is different loses.III. Social Media as a Medium for Cultural PromotionThe research findings highlight the significant role of social media in the digital preservation of traditional games. Platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have been widely utilized to promote traditional games. Community pioneers actively use these platforms to share content, create awareness, and engage the public. This approach helps sustain traditional games and encourages younger generations to explore and appreciate their cultural heritage.Utilizing social media as a tool to promote recreational sports and traditional games can help reach a wider audience. Creating pages or groups dedicated to traditionalgames, sharing information, photos, and videos, and holding discussions can help build awareness and interest in the culture. Socialization through social media by community pioneers, as stated by Mr. Yana Arifin, a community pioneer from KORMIYogyakarta City.“We upload video recordings of traditional games on various social media such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, etc. So that children today know how to play traditional games and the benefits of traditional games because traditional games have Javanese philosophies that are useful for daily life lessons”(interview, June 27, 2023).Mr. Yana Arifin is one of the traditional game activists in the Yogyakarta City area. He wants traditional games preserved by disseminating information about traditionalgames on various social media because children today are accustomed to social media. On YouTube social media, you can watch multiple traditional games presented by 14 Kemantrenin Yogyakarta City. One example is the game cublak-cublak suweng, presented by KemantrenGondomanan(Figure 4). Whoever is different loses.</p> <p>Figure 4.Cublak-Cublak Suweng on Youtube(KemantrenGondomanan)Source: Youtube (2024)One child lies on their stomach and later guesses which friend is carrying the key. The other children play with the key (a small object) that is rotated on the back, on which there are several palms of other friends. Finally, the key is placed in the child's hands, and the song cublak-cublak suwen is sung. The verse of the song cublak-cublak suweng:Cublak-cublak suweng,suwenge teng gelenterMambu kedundung kudelPakempong rewa rewo sopo ngguyu ndelikakeSir...sirpongdelegosongSir...sirpongdelegosong.Figure 5.Children's game on Facebook(KemantrenPakualaman)Source: Facebook(2024) Figure 6.Traditional games on Instagram (KemantrenGondokusuman)Source: Instagram(2024)Socialization through social media is very practical today, so the pioneers of several Kemantrencommunities in the city of Yogyakarta carry out this socialization. Socialization on social media is carried out through YouTube (Figure 4), Facebook (Figure 5), Instagram (Figure 6), and TikTok (Figure 7).Figure 7.Traditional games on TikTok (KemantrenUmbulharjo)Source: Instagram(2024) IV. Organizing Competitions and EventsAnother key strategy is the organization of traditional game competitions and events. These activities revive interest in traditional games while fostering a sense of community. The study found that various districts in Yogyakarta have hosted annual competitions, with funding support from the local government. Theseevents have attracted participants of all ages, demonstrating that traditional games can remain relevant in modern society.Holding events and competitions featuring recreational sports and traditional games can effectively introduce and popularize these cultures. Such events can involve local communities, schools, and other community groups to participate and learn about traditional games.Community pioneers in several Kemantrenin Yogyakarta City widely conduct traditional game competitions. These community pioneers allocate grant funds from the Yogyakarta City Education, Youth, and Sports Office through KORMIYogyakarta City. Traditional game competitions between villages in a Kemantren, as expressed by Mr. Oni Wantara, a community pioneer from KemantrenKraton.“In KemantrenKraton, the grant funds at that time were used for traditional game competitions. The competition was attended by children, teenagers, and parents in the KemantrenKratonenvironment; the purpose of this competition was to socialize traditional games”(interview, June 28, 2023).The same statement was given by Mrs. Dewi Risdiyawati, a community pioneer from KemantrenWirobrajan.“Before the pandemic, KemantrenWirobrajanheld a sports competition to attract Kemantrenathletes, not forgetting that the gobaksodorgame competition was also included”(interview, July 5, 2023).The utilization of grant funds from the City for the implementation of traditional game competitions, not only KemantrenKratonand KemantrenWirobrajan, but also other Kemantren, such as KemantrenNgampilan, Jetis, Gedongtengen, and Mergangsan.V. Integration into Educational InstitutionsCommunity pioneers also collaborate with educational institutions to integrate traditional games into school curricula. Some schools in Yogyakarta have already adopted traditionalgames as part of their physical education programs. This initiative aims to instill cultural values in students while promoting physical activity. The findings indicate that such integration enhances student engagement and fosters appreciation for traditional heritage.</p> <p>Some schools or educational institutions may want to incorporate recreational sports and traditional games into their curriculum. Collaborating with them to develop programs or activities involving traditional games can help expand their influence and encourage the younger generation to learn and appreciate local culture. A community pioneer from KemantrenMergangsan has collaborated with educational institutions, Mr. Drs. Nuri Hartana M.Syarif, a teacher of Sports subjects at SMKN2 Yogyakarta City.“At SMKN2 Jetis, Yogyakarta City has included traditional games in the curriculum because traditional games have many benefits besides increasing fitness; in traditional games, there are good meanings. It teaches cooperation, socialization, honesty, and the element of joy, which is also there, playing while singing”(interview, June 27, 2023).A community pioneer also conveyed the same thing from KemantrenKraton, Mr. Oni Wantara:“Schools from elementary to junior high schools should include traditional games in the curriculum, because the level of elementary to junior high school is possible to be given traditional game lessons”(interview, June 27, 2023).The statements of Mr. Nuri from KemantrenMergangsanand Mr. Oni from KemantrenKratonshow their concern for traditional games. They care about the sustainability of traditionalgames so that they do not become extinct but remain sustainable by including traditional games in the school curriculum.VI. Training and Workshops for SustainabilityWorkshops and training programs have emerged as essential components of digital preservation efforts. Community pioneers in various districts have initiated workshops to educate children and young adults about the significance and rules of traditional games. These initiatives ensure that the knowledge and skills required to play these games are passed down to future generations. The findings suggest that workshops are crucial in reviving interest and participation in traditional games.Organizing training and workshops on recreational sports and traditional games can help develop people's skills and knowledge of these cultures.This is what community pioneers from KemantrenNgampilanwill do, as interviewed by Mrs. Siti Mukminati, treasurer of KORMIKemantrenNgampilan.“KemantrenNgampilanhas submitted a proposal for 2023 with training activities and workshops on traditional games with speakers from UNY and sports lecturers, but until now, the funds have not been disbursed. The previous year, KemantrenNgampilanused grant funds from the city for traditional game competitions” (interview, June 28, 2023).</p> <p>This statement from the community pioneer KemantrenNgampilanshows that the concern for traditional games is enormous. They care about the sustainability of traditionalgames by organizing various activities to support preserving traditional games. For this year, they are trying to manage training and workshops on traditional games because children today do not know how the rules of the game of various traditional games exist.The same thing was also welcomed positively by community pioneers from other Kemantrenin Yogyakarta. They strongly agree with the traditional game training activities. The traditionalgame training event has become a plan to carry out this training.DiscussionThe results of this study show that community pioneers play an essential role in preserving traditional games through various digital initiatives. These findings answer the research question of what strategies are used in the digital preservation of traditional games in Yogyakarta.I. Digital Documentation and Content CreationThis research reveals that digital documentation is the primary strategy for preserving the existence of traditional games. Creating videos, tutorials, and game guides allows the younger generation to access information about traditionalgames more easily (Ikawati et al., 2018). This aligns with previous research emphasizing digitalization's importance in cultural preservation.Digital documentation plays an important role in maintaining the existence of traditional games and facilitating the younger generation's access to information about them. The creation of digitized game videos, tutorials, and guides enhances the appeal andsupports cultural preservation. For example, Regiana et al.(2020)research highlights how digitization is a key strategy in introducing traditional games to the younger generation. This finding is in line with other studies that state that digitized games can complement existing teaching methodologies and maintain traditional games' cultural value (Sakuma et al., 2012; Siregar et al., 2022). Furthermore, Rahutami et al.(2019)describe how game-based learning models can optimize children's motor development, demonstrating the benefits of interactive learning that combines traditional games and digital technology in an educational context provide insights into the comparison between traditional and digital games, suggesting that while many children prefer digital games, there are concerns about the adverse effects of the lack of social interaction that often occurs (Rahutami et al., 2019; Suherman et al., 2019). In contrast, traditional games offer clear social interaction, facilitating children's social skills development (Hasan & Husein, 2024).</p> <p>n addition, the use of digital technology in enhancing the play experience can be seen from the approach proposed by Sakuma et al.(2012), which illustrates how augmented reality can be applied to enrich the experience of traditional games, making them more attractive to the younger generation. This research underscores the importance of digital innovation in attracting children's attentionto their native culture. Meanwhile, Hasan & Husein(2024)note the important role of digital, traditional game development in strengthening children's emotional connections and engagement with their culture. Based on this view, the use of technology and digital games should be expanded wisely to preserve cultural identity while adapting to the ever-changing digital age (Albarracin-Acero et al., 2024). Finally, Hasan & Husein(2024)emphasized the importance of traditional games in stimulating children's cognitive and emotional aspects, indicating that although much attention is turning to digital games, traditional games still significantly benefit child development. In this context, digital documentation becomes an important tool to bridge these two worlds and ensure that future generations can access and enjoy our cultural heritage.II. Social Media as a Medium for Cultural PromotionSocial media has proven to be an effective tool in promoting traditional games, enabling their introduction and preservation in modern society. Platforms such as YouTube and Instagram are used to distribute content related to traditional games, such as video tutorials, facilitating access for the younger generation. This is consistent with the findings ofPurnomo & Pratiwi(2023),who stated that the use of social media can increase public awareness and involvement in cultural preservation. Research by Liani(2024)showed that effective learning media, including social media, can stimulate children's social and emotional development, which is relevant in traditional games. These findings support the view that social media acts as a tool to increase community awareness and involvement in cultural preservation. Furthermore, Kaufman et al.(2019)emphasize the importance of digitization in the context of traditional games, noting that many digitized versions of traditional games can provide easy access to younger generations. This digitization can attract the attention of younger users who are more familiar with digital platforms than traditional variations. In addition, Bakar et al.(2018)highlighted how using digital platforms has a vital role in introducing and re-popularizing traditional games, thus bridging the gap between the older and younger generations. The utilization of social media also contributes to increased social interaction and participation in games, which significantly helps in cultural preservation. Research by Sari & Irawan(2024)showed that engagement in traditional games through social media can help children develop social and emotional values necessary in everyday ife. In other words, social media makes traditional games more relevant and accessible to children, increasing their likelihood of participating in local culture and traditions. In this context, Hasan & Husein(2024)also assert that traditional games contribute to children's cognitive and emotional development, especially when promoted through social media, which can attract a wider audience and increase their sense of belonging and engagement with their culture. Theuse of positive media such as Instagram and YouTube also help demonstrate traditional games' cultural values to the younger generation. Finally, Kadir et al.(2021)note that introducing traditional games through social media can create space for cultural reflection and appreciation of the heritage passed down, given the importance of such values in the broader social context. The combination of digitalization of traditional games and social media platforms is a strategic step in preserving culture more thoroughly in this modern era.III. Organizing Competitions and EventsTraditional game competitions and events have been a successful strategy in attracting the public. Community participation in traditional game competitions shows that this cultural heritage is still relevant and has a place in modern life(Najmi et al., 2016). This study reinforces these findings by showing that organizing competitions in various Kemantrenin Yogyakarta has increased the active participation of children and adolescents in traditional games. Research by Indriyani et al.(2021)shows that competition activities held in various Kemantrenin Yogyakarta have positively encouraged community involvement and revived interest in traditional games. Based on research by Indriyani et al.(2021), traditional games serve as a means of entertainment and benefit children's gross motor development. This shows how important traditional games are in children's physical development and social skills. Furthermore, research by Ananda et al.(2024)on ethnomathematics in traditional games indicated that these activities introduce cultural and educational values closely related to children's social identity. In addition, Choirunnisa et al.(2023)showed that traditional games have an important role in character education, which can be seen when competitions are conducted. Through games, children learn about healthy competition, cooperation, and social values in everyday life. Another study by Sholikin et al.(2022)provides further evidence that traditional games can effectively transmit moral and character values to children. Traditional game shows also serve as a tool for cultural promotion and preservation. For example, research by Hutabarat & Padmasari(2020)shows that creating digital-based traditional games can help popularize these games and attract the attention of younger generations who prefer technology. In this context, traditional games are seen as a cultural heritage and a key component in education and child development, which is supported by research (Kadir et al., 2021). Finally, Tanfidiyah(2023)emphasized that education based on traditional games in PAUD institutions can help strengthen cultural identity and preserve local values amidst globalization. This aligns with findings by Afrianti(2003)that traditional game competitions can create space for children and young people to actively engage in their culture and strengthen a sense of community. Thus, traditional game competitions and events serve as a means of entertainment and play a role in modern society's social, emotional, and cultural development. This activity serves as a reminder that cultural heritage still has a relevant place in everyday life.IV. Integration into Educational InstitutionsCollaboration between educational institutions and local cultural values, such as traditional games, is crucial to ensure the sustainability of cultural heritage. Integrating traditional games into the school curriculum allows students to better understandand appreciate their cultural heritage from an early age. A study conducted in Yogyakarta showed that the implementation of this strategy not only improved students' understanding of traditional games but also helped in the development of their character and social skills (Akbar et al., 2023; Tanfidiyah, 2023; Wijayanti, 2018).Traditional games have many benefits in the context of character education. According to Haryanti et al.(2024), traditional games are learning tools to develop students' collaborative abilities. In addition, Basuki emphasized that games can be modified to meet broader physical learning objectives (Basuki, 2017). In a broader context, introducing and applying traditional games in education can develop children's social, emotional, and cognitive aspects (Garzia, 2020; Hastiana & Daliman, 2023).This collaboration also aligns with research results showing that the collaborative principle in traditional games encourages better interpersonal skills in children (Sit & Rakhmawati, 2022). By integrating traditional games into the classroom, educational institutions play a role in delivering knowledge and as guardians and preservers of local culture (Tanfidiyah, 2023). Research shows that collaboration between education and games can create a constructive learning environment, which enhances social interaction and builds positive character in children (Akbar et al., 2023; Karwati, 2016).Furthermore, learning objectives related to traditional games can help students recognize and understand values, such as cooperation and responsibility, which are very important in their daily lives. Thus, educational institutions are responsible for facilitating and encouraging the use of traditional games as part of the learning process (Rosyad & Zuchdi, 2018).</p> <p>V. Training and Workshops for SustainabilityTraining and workshops play a crucial role in preserving traditional games by providing a platform for community pioneers to transfer their knowledge and skills to the younger generation. The workshop method has proven effective in maintaining cultural practices through a hands-on and interactive approach (Wulansari, 2017). This is supported by research showing that community-based programs, such as workshops, can increase young people's understanding and engagement with their culture (Lintangkawuryan & Adiati, 2017; Prastowo, 2018).Most studies show that hands-on training facilitates knowledge transfer and children's emotional engagement with traditional games (Fitri et al., 2020). With an interactive approach, such as in-game simulations or group teaching, participants can learn more deeply about the cultural values and ways of playing various traditional games (Ambretti et al., 2019; Iwandanaet al., 2021). Furthermore, Fitri et al.(2020)stated that training in the context of traditional games helps students understand the values contained in each game, thus encouraging the preservation of the culture.An emphasis on local wisdom-based education through training and workshops is essential, primarily to raise awareness of cultural values among young children (Lintangkawuryan & Adiati, 2017; Prastowo, 2018). In addition, collaboration between community leaders and culture-based training can strengthen the capacity of communities to transfer knowledge and skills, thus ensuring the practical sustainability of local culture (Wulansari, 2017). Continuously implemented training can also strengthen children's cultural identity by introducing traditional games, contributing to cultural preservation (Iwandana et al., 2021).In conclusion, training and workshops are a tool for learning traditional games and an important strategy to preserve cultural heritage. Through these programs, the younger generation is expected to recognize, appreciate, and preserve the games that are part of their cultural identity, which further supports the sustainability of traditional culture amid rapid modernization (Fitri et al., 2020; Wulansari, 2017).Overall, this research provides new insights into how digitization can be used to preserve traditional games. Unlike previous research on video documentation (Ikawati et al., 2018), this study highlights various digital strategies, including social media engagement, competitions, education integration, and training and workshops. As such, this study significantly contributes to cultural preservation efforts in the digital age and can serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges</p>

This research shows that digitization can be an effective tool in preserving traditional games amid changing times. Community pioneers in Yogyakarta have proven that traditional games can be kept alive and recognized by the younger generation through digital documentation, social media promotion, competitions, education integration, training, and workshops. Implementing these digital strategies not only helps in cultural preservation but also increases public awareness of the traditional values contained in the games. Therefore, approaches combining technology with community engagement should continue to be developed so traditional games can survive in the digital era. In addition, further research is needed to explore other digital innovations that can strengthen this preservation strategy and expand its reach to national and international levels</p>