Among the many reasons Indonesian parents forbid their children from going out at night, folktales are often a powerful tool to instill both obedience and vigilance. In Soppeng Regency, South Sulawesi, one of the most enduring legends is that of Nenek Pakande, a horror story passed down for generations among the Bugis people.

This figure is depicted as a supernatural being in the form of a frail, hunched old woman with white hair, whose sinister craving is to prey on children. The name “Pakande” comes from the Bugis word manre, meaning “to eat,” underscoring her reputation as a merciless devourer.

The Curfew from Nenek Pakande's Story

The Terror Begins in Soppeng

Legend has it that Nenek Pakande’s powers came from a dark pact that required her to continually consume children’s flesh to retain her strength. Night after night, she wandered from village to village until one day, she arrived in Soppeng. On her first night there, she hid in a cave, waiting for the perfect moment when her prey would be off guard.

That moment came when two siblings, lost in their marble game in the yard, ignored their mother’s calls as dusk deepened. Unaware of the pair of eyes watching them, they were suddenly seized by Nenek Pakande, who whisked them away before anyone could see.

A Loss That Shook the Village

The next morning, news of the missing children sent the entire village into panic—especially when it was discovered that a baby had also vanished that same night. Amid the chaos emerged La Beddu, a clever young man convinced that Nenek Pakande was behind it all.

He revealed that there was only one creature the witch feared: Raja Bangkung Pitu Reppa Rawo Ale, a towering giant who preyed only on the wicked. Though the giant had not been seen for a long time, La Beddu decided to disguise himself as the fearsome being to drive Nenek Pakande away.

La Beddu’s Clever Strategy

With the villagers’ help, La Beddu devised a plan, gathering turtles, eels, a pitchfork, dried bamboo shoots, soapy water, and a large stone. That night, the entire village went dark—except for La Beddu’s brightly lit house. Drawn by the glow and the sound of a crying baby used as bait, Nenek Pakande crept closer.

As she climbed the stairs, a thunderous voice boomed, claiming to be Raja Bangkung Pitu Reppa Rawo Ale. A huge shadow loomed on the wall, accompanied by bursts of foam like the drool of a giant. In reality, the shadow was merely the reflection of the turtles and the pitchfork, while the loud, eerie sounds came from the dried bamboo shoots skillfully played by La Beddu.

The End of the Demon

Terrified, Nenek Pakande staggered backward, staring toward the source of the voice. Without realizing it, she stepped on a slippery eel, lost her footing, and tumbled down, hitting her head on the large stone at the base of the stairs—killing her instantly. To ensure she would never return, the villagers burned her body until only ashes remained, carried away by the wind.

Not long after, the two siblings and the baby reappeared unharmed. It turned out Nenek Pakande had not yet eaten them, intending instead to wait until they were older. Thanks to La Beddu’s wit, her plan was foiled, and peace returned to Soppeng.

The Moral Behind the Legend

The rule against playing outside after dark is not an arbitrary restriction, but a form of care meant to keep children safe from dangers that may be lurking.

La Beddu’s courage serves as a reminder that threats need not always be confronted with physical strength alone, but also with intelligence, creativity, and an ability to read the situation. The plan he crafted with the villagers shows how cooperation and mutual trust can build a formidable force—capable of defeating even the most fearsome of foes. It is a reminder that every individual has an important role in safeguarding the safety and harmony of their community.

This legend also imparts the values of empathy and compassion. The panic and grief felt by the parents in the story reflect how precious our loved ones truly are. It teaches us to value time with our families, protect them, and never ignore a call or warning that comes from a sincere heart.

Ultimately, the tale of Nenek Pakande is not only about defeating a terrifying supernatural being, but also about overcoming fear within ourselves, finding the courage to act in the name of truth, and nurturing strong social bonds. These values, though wrapped in a vivid work of folklore, remain the moral foundation that shapes the character and integrity of future generations.