Understanding the Concept of Merantau, Tau Jo Nan Ampek and Ninik Mamak in Minangkabau Culture in West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

This article examines Minangkabau culture in West Sumatra, Indonesia. In this province, the people still maintain a culture, namely the cultural heritage of their ancestors, even though they no longer live in their hometown. Scholars say that the Minang people have carried out the concept of rantau to make a living outside their hometown and have implemented a family system managed by the parents of the wife's family. In this case, this article will look at the foundations of the Minang people's cultural knowledge and the strategies that Minang families carry out to maintain their customs in the contemporary era. By conducting an ethnographic study, we found a portrait of Adat of Minangkabau embedded with religious and ethnic foundations, which can be seen from the many concepts and their applications in society, not only in the private sphere but also in the public sphere. It is hoped that this study will fill the gap in understanding one of the ethnic groups in the archipelago in anthropological studies in Southeast Asia, which is still vital in maintaining its culture, even though they have difficulties protecting it.