Resilience and Matriarchal Values: A Study of Women and Single Mothers in the Minangkabau Community

Abstract

In the matriarchal Minangkabau community of West Sumatra, women’s roles are often downplayed despite their substantial engagement in both public and private life. This study aimed to uncover the unique value system embraced by Minangkabau women, particularly their resilience and exemplary practices that contribute to local sustainable development. Women’s mental well-being is closely tied to global sustainable development goals, spanning education, non-communicable disease reduction, and social protection. Poverty-induced depression is common among widowed women worldwide, underscoring the need to explore how Minangkabau women respond to contemporary challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and economic hardships. Resilience, a central theme, is shaped by spiritual and environmental factors, fostering overall well-being. The “saparuik” family in Minangkabau society strengthens familial bonds and plays a pivotal role in nurturing resilience. The matrilineal kinship structure offers social security to families, but its impact on women’s resilience amid modern challenges requires further investigation. This study employed qualitative methods, specifically a case study design, to examine women’s experiences in rural areas (Padang Pariaman Regency) and urban settings (Padang City). Interviews with these women revealed a common thread despite their diverse backgrounds. While the Minangkabau matriarchal system may limit women’s influence within the family’s “saparuik,” women consistently embody strong matriarchal ideals when facing adversity. This research enhances our understanding of gender roles in matriarchal systems and underscores women’s crucial contributions to broader sustainable development. Minangkabau women’s resilience serves as a testament to their resilience and their ability to address contemporary challenges, making significant strides toward achieving sustainable development goals. Keywords: Resilience; Single Mother; Matrilineal; Minangkabau; Mental health; SDG’s