pelihara

Pelihara is a word used in Indonesian and Malay that denotes the act of keeping, caring for, or preserving something. It is most commonly used as a verb meaning to take care of living things or to raise and maintain them, such as animals, plants, or livestock. Beyond animals, pelihara can also refer to preserving or maintaining non-living things, including culture, environments, or property, depending on the context.

Common derivations include memelihara, peliharaan, pemelihara, and pemeliharaan. Memelihara means to take care of or to maintain; peliharaan refers to something kept or cherished, most often a pet or domestic animal; pemelihara denotes a caretaker or keeper; and pemeliharaan signifies maintenance or preservation processes. These forms illustrate how pelihara operates as part of a word family that covers action, the thing kept, and the person responsible.

Usage examples illustrate its range. "Dia memelihara anjing." (He keeps/cares for a dog.) "Kebijakan ini bertujuan memelihara lingkungan." (This policy aims to preserve the environment.) "Hewan peliharaan seperti kucing dan anjing." (Pets such as cats and dogs.) "Pemeliharaan kebun dilakukan setiap minggu." (Garden maintenance is carried out every week.)

Pelihara is widely used in everyday Indonesian and Malay, with subtle emphasis shifts depending on context—from practical care of pets and plants to broader efforts to conserve traditions, habitats, or infrastructure. It reflects a common cultural emphasis on care, upkeep, and preservation.