Traditional Leaders Research Articles

Merenden Tedong di Mamasa: Integrasi Pendekatan Struktural dan Kultural dalam Memitigasi Konflik Sosial Keagamaan

The Mamasa community has the Merenden Tedong tradition which is rooted in customary law as an effective conflict resolution model in resolving social problems. This tradition is deeply rooted and has become a unique cultural icon in overcoming social challenges and conflicts in society. The integration of this traditional approach with a formal approach from the government has strengthened the mechanism for mitigating socio-religious conflict in social life. This article aims to describe the integration between two conflict resolution models, namely the cultural approach through customary law and the structural approach through government policy, as an effort to mitigate socio-religious conflict in Mamasa. This research used a phenomenological analysis approach involving in-depth interviews. Informants consisted of traditional leaders, community leaders, government officials and community members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Merenden Tedong tradition as a model for conflict resolution. This research found that the integration of cultural and structural approaches in the Merenden Tedong tradition contributed significantly to mitigating social and religious conflict. Collaboration between traditional institutions and the government strengthened the role of customary law in conflict prevention, proving that an integrative approach is more effective than a unilateral model. Further research is recommended to explore the role of the younger generation in maintaining the identity of Pitu Ulunna Salu as a conflict mitigation strategy. Keywords: Merenden Tedong, Conflict Resolution, Integrative Approach, Mamasa

The Value of Ecological Wisdom in the Oral Story of the Toba Batak "Tombak Sulu Sulu": An Ethnographic Study

This research explores the values of ecological wisdom contained in Toba Batak's oral stories, especially the legend of "Tombak Sulu Sulu." The background of this research is based on the importance of environmental preservation amid the threat of ecological disasters around Lake Toba. The method used is qualitative, with an ethnographic study conducted in the Bakkara Valley. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, field observations, and documentation related to the legend. The results showed that this legend contains five central values of ecological wisdom: respecting nature, living in harmony with nature, wise use of natural resources, using environmental knowledge for place naming (toponymy), and making nature a spiritual tool. These values emphasize the importance of harmonious relationships between humans and the environment that can be integrated into nature conservation and sustainable development efforts. This research offers a new perspective on how traditional narratives can build societal ecological awareness.

Communication Form Of Tungku Tigo Sajarangan As Minangkabau Leader (Study in Nagari Sungai Abu, SolokRegency, West Sumatra)

This research focuses on the Sungai Abu community as an ethnic Minangkabau who is bound by the laws that apply in society. Because the penghulu acts as a leader and traditional leader, Cadiak Pandai is a person who is intelligent/scientist, scholar, bureaucrat, politician, scientist and expert in various professions, while Alim Ulama is a person who is an expert in religion and religious leaders. Through the library research method used, by collecting data through journal articles, related books, and reading several previous studies, the author observed Tigo Sajarangan Tungku's form of communication in leading in Nagari Sungai Abu. Among them contains three aspects. First, communicating in the realm of deliberation and consensus as a means of decision making. Second, communicating by establishing functional integration to preserve the customs of the Abu River. Third, communicate using figures of speech as a form of polite language in speaking and conveying ideas.

The Role of Traditional Leaders in Local Governance: A Case Study of Jambi Province, Indonesia

Indonesia's decentralized governance system provides space for the integration of traditional leadership into local administration. This study examines the role of traditional leaders in local governance within Jambi Province, Indonesia, investigating their interactions with the formal public administration system, influence on policy implementation, and contribution to community development. This qualitative study employed a case study approach focusing on three districts in Jambi Province with varying degrees of adherence to traditional customs. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with traditional leaders, government officials, and community members. Archival research, including local regulations and policy documents, supplemented the primary data. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and patterns. Traditional leaders in Jambi continue to hold significant influence in local communities, particularly in rural areas. Their roles encompass conflict resolution, cultural preservation, and advocacy for community interests. While their authority is not formally recognized within the modern administrative structure, they play a crucial role in mediating between communities and the government. The study found varying degrees of collaboration and tension between traditional leaders and government officials, depending on factors such as the leaders' individual personalities, the prevailing cultural norms of the community, and the specific policy area in question. The findings highlight the complexities of integrating traditional leadership into modern governance systems. While traditional leaders can contribute valuable local knowledge and legitimacy, their involvement can also pose challenges to bureaucratic procedures and accountability mechanisms. The study underscores the importance of recognizing and accommodating traditional authority while ensuring transparency and adherence to democratic principles.

Opportunities and challenges in utilizing community assets to extend chronic care management in podoconiosis endemic areas: Evidence from Northwestern Ethiopia.

Community-based chronic care intervention is important in the control and prevention of lifelong conditions such as podoconiosis and similar 'intensive disease management' neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Despite a call for such interventions, few efforts have been made to identify opportunities and challenges related to their implementation. Employing a qualitative approach, this study explored the possibility of engaging community actors, physical places and networks to promote chronic care management in rural Ethiopia. We gathered data from affected individuals, community members, local leaders, health professionals and community health workers between April and May 2022. The study revealed that affected individuals, family members, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and health professionals have the potential to extend chronic care management in rural areas. Houses, churches, schools, and healthcare facilities are suitable venues at which to perform interventions. Strong community solidarity and political will are vital to chronic care interventions, while lack of understanding about chronic conditions, financial constraints, and limited resources at healthcare facilities could pose challenges. Using community assets has great promise for expanding chronic care management with minimal costs and efforts in under resourced areas. Achieving this will require a successful plan to coordinate the collaboration among the agents and settings.

Is community-led total sanitation programme ending open defecation? A sustainability perspective from stakeholders in Ghana

Community-led total sanitation (CLTS) is an intervention widely employed by developing countries to end open defecation (OD) in line with SDG Target 6.2. Following its adoption in Ghana, many communities have been declared open defecation-free (ODF), but little is known about their sustainability. This study sought to determine the sustainability of the ODF status of communities after 2 to 10 years of certification across eight regions in Ghana. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 26 practitioners and implementers, focus group discussions and direct observations in 22 communities. The data were manually transcribed and thematically analysed. The results revealed four major sustainability factors: motivational, behavioural change, leadership and financial. While motivational factors included improved health, pride, comfort and convenience, leadership factors involved supportive traditional and active natural leaders, and behavioural change entailed understanding the consequences of OD and latrine rebuilding. Financial factors encompassed access to sanitation funds. Regional and district league tables were found to be influencing the sustainability factors of the programme. Based on the findings, policymakers and implementers of the CLTS programme should intensify persuasive education focusing on sustainable behavioural change towards OD and post-ODF follow-ups alongside league tables to motivate sustained ODF communities while providing a friendly loan schedule for communities willing to pay.

Pandangan Masyarakat Aceh tentang Penggunaan Ganja

This study aims to explore the views of the Acehnese people regarding the use of marijuana, with a special focus on the perspectives of traditional leaders and clergy in the region. Aceh, known for its strict application of sharia law, has a distinctive view of prohibited substances, including marijuana. This research method uses a qualitative approach with in-depth interview techniques with traditional leaders and clergy as well as literature studies to strengthen their views on the legality, social impact, and moral implications of cannabis use. The results of this study show that medically, marijuana can overcome long-term pain, mental health problems, slow the development of cancer cells, and improve symptoms of epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. However, there are health risks such as mental health problems, testicular cancer, and respiratory diseases if used. In Indonesia law, marijuana is considered a drug with a high addictive effect and is prohibited from use. By teaching the community and working with law enforcement, Acehnese traditional and religious leaders play an important role in preventing marijuana abuse. In general, although marijuana has potential medical benefits, marijuana use in Indonesia must continue to be controlled and restricted to prevent abuse. If the legalization of medical marijuana is discussed, the benefits and risks should be carefully considered, with strict regulation to reduce its adverse effects.

Evaluasi Pemekaran 6 Provinsi di Papua: Studi Pandangan Tokoh Adat Papua

The expansion policy regulated in Law Number 2 of 2021 mandates the formation of three new provinces in Papua, namely South Papua, Central Papua, and Mountainous Papua. They believe that expansion will bring more attention and resources to areas that have been neglected. The purpose of this study is to look at the impact of provincial expansion in Papua from the perspective of indigenous leaders, given that this policy has created six new provinces in the country. As part of the Indonesia government's efforts to improve administrative efficiency and accelerate development, these changes have generated a lot of response from the community, especially from indigenous Papuan leaders who have an important role in the country's social and cultural structure. This study uses a qualitative approach with literature review to reveal the subjective views and experiences of indigenous leaders related to provincial expansion. The results of the study show that traditional leaders support and oppose this expansion policy. Support comes from those who believe that expansion can accelerate progress and well-being, while objections stem from concerns that it could disrupt social and cultural stability. This research helps to understand the impact of expansion from the perspective of indigenous leaders, emphasizes that cultural and social aspects must be considered when making expansion policies, and suggests that an inclusive and local wisdom-based approach should be applied in Papua's development process.

Livelihood Resilience Strategies to Climate Variability among Pastoralists in Longido District, Tanzania

This paper assessed the level of livelihood strategies practiced by Maasai pastoralists in Longido district, Tanzania. It focused on their resilience to climate variability. The main question that this sought to address was: How resilient are livelihood strategies to climate change and variability among the Maasai pastoralists in response to climate variability? This study employed the resilient theory by Holling and the DFID Livelihood Framework. The study used a mixed-method design, also known as a convergent parallel design. A multistage sampling technique was used to purposefully select wards, then villages, and then a simple random selection of the 373 households for the survey. This study purposively selected 21 key informants from traditional leaders, ward and village leaders, NGO officials, and livestock officers. While data gathered through interviews, observation and focus group discussions was analysed qualitatively. Data obtained through questionnaires was analysed quantitatively using IBM SPSS (version 20). The chi-square was used to test the association of the variables. Findings revealed that key strategies such as mobility, communal pooling, causal labour, livestock management, and others. Also, the role of education and sources of income were crucial in shaping resilience strategies. Household with more education were more likely to have reliable resilience strategies. The main challenge faced by Maasai pastoralists in building climate resilience strategies is increased variability in climate, in the form of frequent drought and unreliable rainfall. This paper recommends more efforts to understand and support these communities by blending their traditional strategies with technical ones for sustainable livelihoods

Islam, Adat, and State: Examining the Phenomenon of Child Custody After Divorce in Padang Lawas Regency

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of childcare by fathers after divorce in Padang Lawas County. This phenomenon raises the interest of researchers to further examine child custody by fathers after divorce. The research method used is field research with a qualitative approach. Researchers collected primary data through interviews with traditional leaders and fathers caring for their children after divorce. The data obtained was then analyzed using descriptive analysis techniques, which involved collecting data through interviews and documentation and systematic data processing to describe and interpret existing phenomena. The results show that although customs in Padang Lawas County give custody to the father, it is essential to consider the provisions of the compilation of Islamic law and the broader principles of Islamic law. Child custody should focus on the best interests of the child, ensuring their physical, emotional, and mental development. Both parents have equal rights unless there are compelling reasons to the contrary, and they must work together to maintain the child's stability. Children have the right to adequate education and healthcare, as well as to maintain a good relationship with both parents, even if only one has primary custody.

Legal Authority and Marital Identity: A Study on the Kalosara Tradition of the Tolaki People in Southeast Sulawesi

For the Tolaki indigenous people, a marriage is considered valid when it is conducted in accordance with the kalosara tradition. This signifies that the legitimacy of marriage among the Tolaki people of Southeast Sulawesi is not determined by adherence to Islamic law or state regulations, but by the observance of the kalosara customary practice. This study seeks to explore the kalosara tradition as the prevailing authority in the marriage law of the Tolaki community in Southeast Sulawesi, and to analyze the perspectives of Islamic law through the concepts of ‘urf and maṣlaḥa mursala in relation to this tradition. Employing a qualitative research method with an empirical-normative approach, data were gathered through interviews with traditional leaders, community figures, and religious authorities. The findings of the study indicate that the kalosara tradition in Tolaki community wedding ceremonies consists of three stages: seeking permission, the proposal, and the marriage contract. The Tolaki people regard a marriage as valid only if it adheres to the kalosara tradition, establishing customary law as the dominant form of marriage law within the community. From the perspective of ‘urf, the kalosara tradition is deemed acceptable, as it fulfills the criteria of al-‘urf al-ṣaḥīḥ (good custom). Moreover, the kalosara tradition contributes to social welfare within the Tolaki community of Southeast Sulawesi. This research is expected to make a significant global contribution to the development of studies on marriage law and tradition. Furthermore, it is deserving of recognition as a valuable academic resource addressing societal legal needs concerning the practice of marriage traditions.

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT IN A MODERN ORGANIZATION: A REVIEW OF CURRENT APPROACHES

The article presents the author's vision of the problem of loss of effectiveness of traditional leadership approaches in managing a modern organization and the need to search for and implement new approaches. It is proposed to shift the focus of attention from classical approaches: from the position of personal qualities (personalistic), behavioral approach and situational approach, justifying the decrease in the results of their use in the activities of managers, to current approaches to organizational leadership, which are offered by modern scientists of the twenty-first century. Based on the analysis of publications in the scientific electronic library Elibrary.ru, such types of leadership as transformational, transactional, charismatic, team, divided, visionary were established. The features of each approach are identified and described. The concept of the terms “leadership”, “leader” (“manager”), “management” is given. The question is raised about the importance of a manager’s understanding of the changing needs and expectations of modern subordinates: the reality of our time is that there is a great need for a flexible work schedule and the ability to work remotely. A vision of what qualities and skills a modern leader should have is proposed, the need to develop emotional intelligence and the importance of changing the way of building communication with modern subordinates is highlighted. Attention is focused on the fact that the forms and methods of training leaders-managers in modern organizations require constant attention and regular improvement. Using the research results in the practical sphere of activity of managers will make it possible to increase the effectiveness of management in the context of the development of the digital economy within the country, improvement of technologies, artificial intelligence, as well as the influence of foreign policy events and increasing sanctions.

Climate change and population aging: The role of older adults in climate change mitigation

This paper explores the intersection of climate change, population aging, and community resilience, focusing on the potentially powerful roles of older adults in climate change mitigation efforts, particularly in developing countries. Through a brief review of relevant literature in the fields of environmental studies, gerontology, and community development, the paper examines the vulnerabilities of older adults to climate change impacts and their potential contributions to adaptation and mitigation strategies. By integrating findings from some existing literature, the paper contributes to ongoing conversations about the inclusivity of climate change actions and the empowerment of marginalized groups. Our suggestions include harnessing the traditional knowledge and leadership of older adults and empowering them to act as climate change activists within their communities. Additionally, the paper suggests encouraging older adults to organize community capacity-building workshops that advocate for environmentally sustainable initiatives. We conclude by emphasizing that neglecting older adults in the climate change discourse risks exacerbating entrenched social inequalities and overlooks the potentially valuable resources and knowledge that older adults can contribute toward climate change mitigation and adaptation. This therefore calls for the recognition of older adults as vital agents of change and empowering them through inclusive development policies, programs, and initiatives. Future research should investigate the long-term impacts of inviting older adults into climate change mitigation efforts, and the barriers that may hinder their active engagement.

Identity Struggle and Ethno-Social Conflict in Papua: Uncovering the Root of the Problem and Finding Sustainable Solutions

Background: Papua Province is a region rich in diverse ethnicities and has complex social dynamics due to significant ethnic differences. Social conflicts in Papua are not only conflicts between individuals, but also reflect broader changes with cultural, political and socio-economic aspects.Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze the determinants of social conflict in Papua based on ethnicity and to propose strategies for achieving sustainable social harmony.Method: This research employs a qualitative method focusing on indigenous Papuans, selecting informants such as traditional leaders, community leaders, youth, women, religious figures, and bureaucrats through in-depth interviews and literature studies conducted from July to August 2023.Results: Papuan ethnic identity is shaped by their unique cultural values and traditions, distinguishing them from other ethnic groups in Papua. However, the government's development programs fail to address this identity, contributing to the marginalization of Papuans.Conclusion: The conflict in Papua stems from Papuans fighting for their basic rights tied to their ethnic identity, rather than economic or political issues, highlighting the need for future research on development policies that respect this identity.

Tradisi Seren Taun berbasis Kearifan Lokal Masyarakat AdatKasepuhan (Suatu Kajian Holistik Antropologi Hukum)

Seren Taun is a series of agricultural activities carried out every year by a traditional community in atraditional area which is usually called a traditional traditional ritual, as a form of respect for the ancestors andthe Goddess Sri with all forms of rituals and cultural arts performances of the Kasepuhan indigenouscommunity from very from long ago to modern art displayed by indigenous peoples. The rice was brought,paraded, accompanied by everyone present to be stored in the Leuit Si Jimat communal barn. The local wisdomof the Kasepuhan traditional community of Banten Kidul is a community that still upholds and carries outtraditions with the supervision of the Abah as the Traditional Leader. Kasepuhan residents are devoutfollowers of the Islamic religion, but in their daily lives they are characterized by mythical and animist beliefsor they still maintain ancestral beliefs such as burning incense, giving offerings, traditional ceremonies, placingfences on doors, and other ancestral beliefs. The Holistic Study of Legal Anthropology illustrates that traditionalrituals based on local wisdom are a manifestation of the behavior or actions of indigenous people in an effort toget closer to God. Because rituals are ceremonies carried out by indigenous people throughout their lifetime,they are carried out by every indigenous community in their traditional territory, because they are ceremoniesfor the life cycle of an individual's life as a member of society (the universal circle of life).Keywords: Seren Taun Tradition, Local Wisdom of the Kasepuhan Indigenous Community, Holistic Study ofLegal Anthropology

A quarantine paradox: understanding Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in post-COVID-19 era: insights from Golden Valley mining community, Zimbabwe

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges globally, with a notable surge in gender-based violence (GBV) incidents. This descriptive, exploratory study conducted in the Golden Valley mining community in Kadoma, Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe, delves into the challenges faced by GBV survivors during and after the pandemic, alongside community perceptions of GBV in the post-COVID-19 era. Guided by Bronfenbrenner's Social-Ecological Model which offers insights into the various levels of influence on GBV behavior and experiences,aiding in the development of contextually relevant prevention strategies. The study used qualitative methods such as interviews and focus group discussions, there were 24 study participant classified by random and convenient sampling techniques including traditional and community leaders, gbv surviours medical personnel and male and female, community members. The research followed the COREQ guidelines to transparently document the research process and findings. The research sheds light on the multifaceted nature of GBV exacerbated by societal norms and economic instability in a low-income, masculine-dominated work culture experience in the COVID-19 period. Findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive prevention programs, effective legislation, and community engagement to address GBV in post-pandemic communities. The research provides valuable lessons for enhancing GBV prevention efforts globally, emphasizing the significance of survivor voices and addressing root causes of GBV.

What Cross-Silo Leadership Looks Like

This article discusses the concept of cross-silo leadership and key practices for breaking down organizational silos. It argues that as organizational structures have become more complex, traditional vertical leadership has given way to more collaborative cross-functional approaches. The abstract outlines key points from the article, including how cross-silo leaders cultivate collaboration through establishing shared goals, fostering interdependence, and facilitating social bonds. It also discusses how they enhance communication using multiple channels, promote transparency, and engage in active listening. Leaders must also develop a "networked mindset" through valuing relationships over silos, thinking systematically, and embracing ambiguity. The article presents strategies for cross-silo leadership such as redesigning structures, rotating staff, empowering failures at interfaces, and modeling collaboration. Overall, it positions cross-silo leadership as critical for driving effectiveness in networked environments by dissolving barriers between groups.

Leading Beyond Limits: A Conceptual Framework for Success in the Volatile World

This article presents a conceptual framework for leading beyond limits in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) business environment. It argues that traditional leadership models are insufficient and organizations must cultivate expansive thinking, adaptive problem solving, empowering leadership, and trust-based, agile cultures. Expansive thinking involves envisioning possibilities beyond norms through cognitive flexibility and creative problem solving. Adaptive problem solving enables agility through problem identification, solution generation, and implementation with openness to change. Empowering leadership develops trust, shares power, and recognizes grassroots contributions to problem solve autonomously. High-trust cultures lower coordination costs, boost innovation, and allow risk-taking without fear through psychological safety and continuous adaptation. The framework is grounded in research and practical examples, such as how Whole Foods, Ford, GitHub, and 3M demonstrated beyond-limits leadership amid crises. The author contends mastering these constructs will empower extraordinary results by unleashing human potential amid ongoing industry transformation.

Harmful Traditional Practices Affecting the Under-Five Years Children and Associated Factors in Sokoto, State, Nigeria

Introduction Harmful traditional practices violate and negatively affect the physical, psychological well-being and right of women and children. Nigeria has the third highest absolute number of women and girls who have undergone Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) worldwide. Aims To assess the harmful traditional practices on the under-five years children and associated factors in Sokoto, State, Nigeria. Methods A community based cross sectional study that was conducted in Sokoto State, Nigeria on 320 mothers of under-five year children from 1st January-31st March 2021. The study participants were selected using multi stage sampling method, after proportionate allocation of sample size, systematic random sampling method was used to get the study participants. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on harmful traditional practices from the mothers of the eligible children. Data was analysed using SPSS version 22. Results The mean age of the children was 22.5 ± 17.7 months, there were 199(62.2%) males and 121(37.8%) females, and male to female ratio was 1.6:1. Eighty (25.0%) of the under five-year children were circumcised by traditional healers, 189(59.1%) had traditional uvulectomy, 86(28.9%) had female genital mutilation, while 11(3.4%) had scarification marks. The respondent’s educational status (p = 0.008) and (p = 0.001) were factors associated with the practice of FGM and circumcision respectively. Conclusion Harmful traditional practices are still prevalent in Sokoto. Government at all levels should embark on awareness creation programs on the dangers of these harmful traditional practices through mass media, schools, traditional leaders and religious places. Child protection laws should be implemented to curtail these harmful practices.

Konflik dan Resolusi dalam Pembagian Harta Pasca Perceraian di Tanah Pusaka Minangkabau

This research describes a case study from Nagari Koto Tangah, Kecamatan Tilatang Kamang, where the clash between customary law and individual rights became the focal point in resolving shared assets following a divorce. The case involves an intercultural marriage—a husband of Javanese descent and a wife from Minangkabau. After years of marriage and building a house on the wife's ancestral land (Tanah Pusaka Tinggi), their marriage ended in divorce. Although the house was built together, the land, according to Minangkabau custom, could not be sold or transferred to an outsider, including the former husband. During mediation, the wife's family offered compensation to the former husband, but he found the compensation inadequate, leaving lingering dissatisfaction on his part. This study highlights the importance of understanding customary law and individual rights in intercultural marriages. Through a humanistic approach, the research illustrates how Minangkabau customary law protects Tanah Pusaka Tinggi as an integral part of the family's ancestral heritage while also revealing the limitations of legal frameworks in addressing the emotional dissatisfaction that often follows a divorce. By analyzing the perspectives of traditional leaders, religious scholars, and civil law experts, the study proposes a mediation solution that respects customary practices while addressing individual rights. In conclusion, while the conflict is formally considered resolved, the former husband's emotional dissatisfaction indicates that material compensation alone may not achieve full justice. This research recommends the use of prenuptial agreements and legal education on intercultural marriages to prevent similar conflicts in the future.