EATING TOGETHER A-LA BALINESE

The word "megibung" is from the Balinese dialect meaning people eating communally. It is traditional to the Karangasem regency and normally occurs when there is a lot of work to be done in the village like a temple ceremony or social work. 
'Megibung' usually consists of a group of 8 - 10 people sitting together in a circle. In the middle of them is a huge feast with bowls of rice, meat and vegetables, which is eaten communally with their fingers. 
The advantage of 'megibung' is it allows the people to socialize after working hard. In sharing their meal the people feel close to each other and there is an atmosphere harmony. Often there is much joking and laughter and 'megibung' could possibly last a long time until the bowls are all empty.