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Maghfirah Islami Rizal; Muh Basir

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Land conversion associated with renewable energy expansion generates profound socio-cultural transformations in agrarian communities. This study aims to analyze how wind power development reshapes agrarian identity, social capital configuration, and the meaning of land within rural society from an anthropology of development perspective. This research applies qualitative literature-based analysis supported by recent peer-reviewed scholarship on land use change, rural transformation, social capital, and political ecology. Conceptual synthesis integrates sustainable livelihood framework, identity negotiation theory, and energy landscape analysis to construct an interpretive analytical model. Findings indicate that agricultural land conversion produces deagrarianization, occupational shifts, and reconfiguration of social stratification. Land is redefined from a genealogical and productive space into infrastructure and investment asset. Social capital grounded in kinship networks, customary institutions, and local organizations functions as a resilience mechanism through risk redistribution, collective solidarity, and participatory negotiation. Energy landscapes restructure symbolic and material relations between community and territory, generating both hybrid identities and conflict dynamics. Inclusive governance determines whether renewable energy fosters adaptive transformation or deepens commodification and exclusion. Renewable energy transition in rural areas requires socio-cultural recognition beyond technical implementation. Integrating local identity, participatory governance, and community ownership strengthens just and sustainable transformation pathways.

Yuni Mariati; Yandi Saputera; Muhammad Mahendra; Fakhruddin Razy

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to identify and analyze customary and criminal sanctions imposed on individuals who violate Hinting Pali during the Tiwah ceremony, as well as the legal and customary consequences for those engaged in gambling within the ritual process. The research employs an empirical approach with a qualitative descriptive method through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The focus of this study is the implementation of Dayak Ngaju customary law in addressing violations that occur during the Tiwah ceremony. The findings reveal that Dayak Ngaju customary law plays a crucial role in maintaining social and spiritual harmony by enforcing moral, social, and symbolic sanctions. Furthermore, there is a point of convergence between customary law and national criminal law in promoting justice and social order. This study is expected to contribute academically to the development of customary law in Indonesia and serve as a valuable reference for communities, scholars, and policymakers in preserving cultural values and ensuring fair law enforcement within the framework of local wisdom.

Maya Dina Rahma Maghfiroh; Agustinus Sugeng Priyanto

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Gender inequality in Indonesian politics forms part of broader structural and cultural dynamics that shape women’s positions in the public sphere. In historical studies, the thought of R.A. Kartini is often interpreted primarily as a symbol of educational and moral emancipation, while the political dimension of her ideas receives limited attention. This study aims to examine Kartini’s political thought as reflected in her letters, positioning her as a political subject who articulated critiques of social structures, customary norms, and patriarchal power relations through non-formal means. This research adopts a qualitative approach with a library-based research design. The data are derived from an analysis of Kartini’s letters compiled in Door Duisternis tot Licht and supported by relevant academic literature. A descriptive-analytical method with a thematic approach is employed to explore political ideas and discourses embedded in the texts. Kartini’s thought in this study is understood as a form of political awareness that extends beyond individual emancipation and relates to broader issues of women’s political participation. This research contributes to the study of women’s politics by offering a historical perspective that places women as political subjects.

Dewa Ayu Triadinda Cahya Subandi; Kadek Adyatna Wedananta; Putri Ekaresty Haes; Ni Putu Yunita Anggreswari

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to analyze the meaning of interfaith marriage in the film Komang using Ferdinand de Saussure's semiotic theory. This theory emphasizes the relationship between signifier and signified as well as the concepts of langue and parole to explain the interaction between social systems and individual expression. The results of the analysis show that the visual, verbal, and symbolic signs in the film represent the clash between love and belief. Scenes such as the initial meeting at a cultural festival, family rejection, and symbolic marriage become a form of negotiation between social values and personal freedom. This film affirms that interfaith marriage in Indonesia can only be accepted through compromise with the religious norms of the majority, but still presents a message of tolerance through symbols of cultural harmony. Therefore, the film Komang is not just a romantic narrative, but a social reflection on the relationship between religion, culture, and love in a pluralistic society.

Ajeng Cahyani; Nor Fatmah

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to identify and analyze forms of social pathology in Haruki Murakami’s The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle. Employing a qualitative content analysis approach, the research examines how historical violence and trauma, abuse of power, and existential alienation are represented through the novel’s narrative structure, characters, and symbolic elements. The findings indicate that these three categories are interconnected, forming a systemic pattern of social dysfunction rooted in institutional failure, historical memory, and individual psychological pressure. The depiction of war highlights collective trauma, while both physical and symbolic forms of domination illustrate distorted power relations. Furthermore, the motif of alienation reflects the psychological consequences of social instability and disrupted interpersonal bonds. The study aligns with previous research on trauma and deviance in Murakami’s works and strengthens the view of literature as a critical medium for reflecting modern social conditions.

Hendri Suwarsono

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Demonstrations demanding the dissolution of the House of Representatives by 2025 highlight a crisis of public trust and serve as a key moment in Indonesia's political landscape. These protests have not only symbolic significance but also lead to elite repositioning, the temporary dismissal of several members, and the cessation of policy that increased benefits. This study examines how the crisis has prompted political institutional reconstruction and the role of civil society in influencing change. A descriptive qualitative approach was used, including literature studies, analysis of academic literature, official documents, and media reports. The findings indicate that actions by the House of Representatives, such as the rotation of Commission III leadership, member deactivation, and rejection of benefit increases, were primarily reactive to public pressure. The discussion reveals that while these actions reduce crisis escalation, they are cosmetic and do not address structural issues like legislative accountability and budget transparency. In conclusion, the 2025 protests provide an opportunity for civil society to engage politically outside elections, but the institutional changes made are short-term. Fundamental reform can only occur if civil movements remain consistent and if political parties and the government commit to reform.

Agus Rustama; Adhira Halim Ashari; Viola Zabrina Febriyanti; Febi Liontin; Naufalian Hafidz

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

State institutions play a primary role in governing and exercising power within a country. Indonesia, as a unitary state with a republican system, regulates the state's institutional structure through the 1945 Constitution, which serves as the supreme legal basis and guideline for state administration. The function of state institutions is to ensure that all aspects of government are implemented in accordance with the principles of law, justice, and public welfare. The state is not only considered a legal entity but also a social entity with specific functions and logic. The state's objectives are directed at balancing government power and citizen rights and accommodating the interests of individuals and the wider community. Following the amendments to the 1945 Constitution, Indonesia's institutional system underwent significant changes with the establishment of independent institutions that strengthen democracy, transparency, and accountability. Understanding the state's foundations, the requirements for formation, the form and system of government, and the relationships between institutions is crucial for maintaining Indonesia's constitutional order. Furthermore, public respect for state symbols and institutions contributes to strengthening unity and political stability, and realizing the ideals of a sovereign and prosperous nation.

Minerva Laisa Sabatini; Nadia Khumairatun Nisa; Muhammad Satrio Adhi Wicaksono; Muhammad Ibnu Maulana

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study examines Banten Lama as a political symbol that shapes regional identity in Banten Province. As the former center of the Banten Sultanate from the 16th to the 18th century, the site holds not only historical and religious significance but also functions as a symbolic space influencing political legitimacy and the construction of collective identity in contemporary Banten society. Using a qualitative approach with a case study design, this research analyzes how local government, political elites, and communities negotiate the symbolic meanings of Banten Lama through ritual practices, public discourse, and revitalization policies. Data were collected through literature review, non-participatory observation, visual documentation, and examination of policy documents. The findings reveal that Banten Lama operates as a symbolic arena that intertwines historical narratives, Islamic spirituality, and political interests. The government employs symbols of the former sultanate to construct moral legitimacy and a religious political image, while local communities interpret Banten Lama as a spiritual space and a source of economic livelihood. Although the use of historical symbols strengthens regional identity, it also gives rise to symbolic politics that often dominate public space without being accompanied by substantive policy outcomes. This study concludes that the governance of Banten Lama requires participatory and culturally grounded approaches to ensure the sustainable preservation of its historical and social values.

Mangihut Siregar; Novita Dwi Indriani

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2026 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

The culture of patronage is a key characteristic of Indonesian political dynamics, having developed from the pre-colonial era to the contemporary democratic era. Despite decentralization and political reforms in Indonesia, patronage practices persist through relationships between political elites, bureaucracy, business actors, and communities, particularly at the local level. This study analyzes patronage using Pierre Bourdieu's Social Practice Theory framework, which emphasizes the interaction between habitus, capital, and the arena as factors shaping social practices. The method used is descriptive qualitative research with data collection techniques through desk studies, which allows researchers to examine various academic literature to build a comprehensive conceptual analysis. The research findings indicate that internalized political habitus, the accumulation of economic, social, cultural, and symbolic capital, and a competitive local political field are key elements in perpetuating patronage. Patronage is not merely a transactional political practice, but a social structure that is continuously reproduced and impacts the politicization of bureaucracy, the strengthening of oligarchy, power inequality, and the vulnerability of the poor to political manipulation. This research confirms that efforts to strengthen democracy in Indonesia require transformation of the political habitus of society, bureaucratic reform, and restrictions on the dominance of economic actors in the political arena to break the entrenched patron-client chain.

Amalina Nabila

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Symbolic interactionism is an approach that examines how symbols and meanings are created through interactions between individuals within a learning context. This approach explores how individuals use symbols to communicate, interact, and understand the world around them. In the context of the learning process, symbolic interactionist analysis can provide a deep understanding of how learning occurs through interactions between teachers and students, as well as among students themselves. Through this analysis, we can observe how symbols such as language, gestures, and expressions are used to communicate ideas and concepts being taught in the classroom. Additionally, symbolic interactionist analysis can also help us understand how individuals construct their identities within the learning environment. In the modern era of education, the interaction between teachers and students has become one of the crucial aspects of the learning process. Through social interaction and the use of symbols, individuals can shape their perceptions of themselves and how they are viewed by others. This can affect their motivation and engagement in learning. Thus, symbolic interactionist analysis offers valuable insights into understanding the learning process and how interactions between individuals play a key role in the construction of meaning and understanding. Through this understanding, we can improve the quality of learning and provide more meaningful learning experiences for students. Communication does not only occur through words but also through nonverbal communication, including facial expressions, body movements, and other gestures. Therefore, this study aims to analyze how symbolic interactionism plays a role in learning and how nonverbal communication influences the dynamics of classroom interaction.

Rosanti Rosanti; April Laksana; Putri Handayani; Rizqi Fitrianti; Meiby Zulfikar

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

The film Home Sweet Loan depicts the reality of the lives of young people who face economic and psychological pressures due to the double burden of family. The character of Kaluna represents the sandwich generation, a generation that must meet the needs of both generations, parents and the nuclear family. This study aims to analyze the meaning of denotation, connotation, and myth in this film, as well as how the representation of the sandwich generation is formed through narrative and visual symbols. The approach used is Roland Barthes' semiotic analysis, which divides meaning into three levels: denotative, connotative, and myth. Data were obtained through observation of the film, visual documentation and dialogue, and interviews with semiotics experts and film practitioners. The results show that the film Home Sweet Loan presents a layered meaning that reflects the dilemma of the sandwich generation, especially young women. The representation of the sandwich generation is formed through symbols and narratives that highlight the conflict between personal interests and responsibilities to the family. This film not only reflects reality but also functions as an ideological medium that shapes society's perspective on the role of the younger generation in the modern family. Through the character of Kaluna, the film depicts the pressures experienced by individuals in this position, including the challenge of maintaining a balance between personal ambition and obligations to the family. Thus, this film conveys a message about the importance of balancing personal interests and social demands within the family.

Jesika Bakara; Muhammad Iqbal

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to analyze the perceptions of Generation Z members of the Toba Batak ethnic group in Pegagan Julu VI Village, Sumbul District, Dairi Regency, regarding the symbolic meaning of the tradition of giving manuk naniatur (a traditional gift) and the shifting meaning or function of this tradition according to Generation Z. The method used was qualitative with a descriptive approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results indicate that the tradition of giving manuk naniatur is still routinely practiced and has become a local custom. Most Generation Z members value this tradition as an important part of their cultural identity and ancestral heritage, although not all understand its symbols deeply. This tradition is seen as an expression of love and gratitude to God, as well as a sign of blessing, hope, encouragement, and strength for children or families who have migrated. However, there has been a shift in meaning in Generation Z's perspective, from the tradition previously seen as a symbol of respect and spiritual bonding to now being seen more as a cultural identity and shared values ​​that must be maintained. This study illustrates the dynamics of traditional cultural preservation and adaptation to the changing times among the younger generation of the Toba Batak ethnic group.

Catherine Regina Widyasari; Sutarno Sutarno; Mohammad Zamroni

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Hospitals, as healthcare institutions, bear the responsibility of delivering safe, high-quality, and patient-centered services. Hospital accreditation serves as a crucial mechanism to ensure service quality and legal protection for patients, particularly in medical dispute cases. This study aims to analyze the impact of accreditation on patient legal protection, both preventively and repressively. The research employs a normative legal method with statutory and conceptual approaches, utilizing primary, secondary, and tertiary legal materials. Data were analyzed through document studies covering Law Number 17 of 2023 on Health, government regulations, presidential regulations, and technical regulations from the Ministry of Health regarding accreditation standards and procedures. The findings indicate that accreditation functions as a continuous evaluation mechanism to ensure medical services comply with safety standards and clinical governance, strengthens patients’ rights to information, informed consent, and quality care, and reduces the risk of medical disputes. However, implementation challenges exist, including limited resources, compliance performed as formalities, and inconsistent supervision. Therefore, accreditation is not merely an administrative symbol but a strategic legal instrument that enhances patient safety culture and hospital accountability, ensuring that healthcare delivery meets professional, ethical, and legal standards.

Rizky Ilhami

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play an important role in public policy networks as representatives of community interests, government partners, and advocacy actors. This study aims to analyze the role of NGOs in public policy networks in Garut Regency, as well as the challenges faced in increasing their contribution to policy formulation and implementation. The study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive-analytical methods. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation studies of actors involved in the policy network. The results show that NGO involvement is still symbolic, power relations between actors are not yet equal, NGO institutional capacity is limited, and coordination within the policy network is less than optimal. The lack of regulatory support also weakens the position of NGOs in the public policy process. This study concludes that strengthening the role of NGOs through institutionalizing their involvement, developing regulations, increasing capacity, and establishing equal partnership patterns are important steps to improve the effectiveness of public policy networks in Garut Regency.

Sulung Rahmat Aji; Fatihatul Lailiyah; Moch. Ichdah Asyarin Hayau Lailin

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to explore how interpersonal communication plays a role in the process of constructing self-identity within the “Jemuah Keos” community in Surabaya. This community functions as an alternative social space inhabited by individuals with diverse creative backgrounds, such as musicians, motorcycle builders, visual artists, and subculture enthusiasts. The formation of identity in this community is not solely driven by individual expression but also shaped through social interactions that are reflective and rich in meaningful symbols. The study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive case study method. Data were collected through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews with nine informants, and documentation of various visual artifacts representing the community’s activities. The data analysis process follows the interactive model by Miles and Huberman, which consists of three main stages: data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The theoretical framework used in this study refers to Joseph A. DeVito's concept of interpersonal communication, which includes self-disclosure, empathy, emotional support, symbolic exchange, social values, as well as reflective interaction and role negotiation in social relationships. The findings indicate that interpersonal communication is a key element in shaping and negotiating personal identity. Cultural symbols such as clothing style, vehicle modifications, visual language, and daily interaction patterns become primary means of identity expression. The "Jemuah Keos" community demonstrates openness, equality, and a critical stance against the dominance of mainstream culture. Interpersonal communication within this community also plays a role in building collective solidarity and voicing critical views on existing cultural standards. The identity formed is not only personal but also part of a larger community identity.

Zul Khaidir Kadir

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

Punitive populism is a political-legal phenomenon that replaces legal rationality and corrective justice with a rhetoric of power that negates the protection of human rights and the rehabilitative function of the criminal justice system. In this context, criminal policy tends to be characterized by a repressive approach that prioritizes symbolic punishment for short-term political legitimacy. Social polarization further strengthens the destructive power of punitive populism by making the issue of crime a symbolic instrument in identity conflicts, thereby losing its autonomy and submitting to an emotional, majoritarian logic. This study aims to analyze how punitive populism, as a product of the interaction between populist logic and social polarization, results in the erosion of the basic values of modern law, particularly the principles of proportionality, legal certainty, and human rights protection. Furthermore, this study also identifies structural barriers that hinder efforts to curb its expansion in criminal policy. The study uses qualitative methods with a conceptual approach. Data were obtained through library research of academic literature, legal documents, and policy analysis, then processed using qualitative analysis techniques and presented descriptively. The research findings show that punitive populism has shifted the orientation of criminal policy from a paradigm of justice and rehabilitation to a logic of punishment that is reactive to public emotional distress. The mass media, particularly within a polarized information ecosystem, plays a role in shaping distorted perceptions of crime, thereby reinforcing public demands for harsh and immediate policies. This situation creates legal vulnerability to political instrumentalism, threatens the principle of the rule of law, and deepens social exclusion of vulnerable groups. To address this, strategic steps are needed, including limiting fear-based political rhetoric, strengthening independent legal institutions, and rebuilding a criminal law paradigm based on substantive justice, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.

Flaviana Herlis; Gregorius Neonbasu; Yohana Fransiska Medho

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to uncover, analyze, and document the cultural values embodied in the paca or belis tradition in Manggarai community weddings in Golo Wangkung Village, Congkar District, East Manggarai Regency. The belis tradition is understood as an important element in wedding customs that symbolizes the groom's family's respect for the bride's family for their services in raising and educating their daughter until she is ready to start a household. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods, utilizing data collection techniques through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, the bridal couple, and local residents, as well as documentation of the traditional procession. The results show that belis not only contains economic value through the provision of material or livestock, but is also full of social, cultural, and spiritual meaning. The main values identified include respect for parents and ancestors, the responsibility of the groom's family for the continuity of family relationships, strengthening social ties between two extended families, and a symbol of the legitimacy of marriage according to Manggarai customs. The belis tradition also functions as a mechanism to maintain harmonious relationships between families and strengthen social networks within the community. Furthermore, this tradition plays a strategic role in maintaining local cultural identity amidst modernization and changing social values. However, challenges arise when the economic value of belis experiences inflation or a shift in meaning, potentially triggering financial burdens and conflict. Therefore, preserving the belis tradition requires adjustments to its values and implementation mechanisms to maintain its relevance, without losing the essence of respect and togetherness that are at the heart of Manggarai culture. This research makes an important contribution to the documentation and preservation of cultural heritage, and serves as a reference for local governments, traditional leaders, and the community in maintaining the sustainability of the paca or belis tradition.

Amalia Putri Astuti; Monica Margaret

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study examines the primary motivations of authors in creating erotic slash fanfiction using Thai boys-in-love actors on the app X. Adopting a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, and interpreted through the lens of Symbolic Interactionism Theory and Labeling Theory, this study highlights how authors understand and interact with this phenomenon. The findings indicate that authors perceive their work as a form of self-expression, art, and entertainment, despite being aware of the potential for labeling as pornography or violating legal norms. Their primary motivation stems from the fulfillment of personal imagination and self-satisfaction, which is significantly strengthened by the validation and support of a supportive online community. This community also plays a crucial role in shaping unwritten norms and providing psychological buffers against potential external negative views. Authors demonstrate various strategic responses, including the use of disclaimers and a realistic acceptance of societal perceptions. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of a nuanced understanding of online subcultural practices, fostering digital literacy, and suggesting a wise and adaptive approach to content regulation in the digital age. This study also provides insights into how authors of erotic fanfiction on online platforms like X interact with popular cultural values and gender identity. The authors in this study are not only connected to their communities but also engaged in a broader process of identity construction through the characters they create. The Thai boy-love actor, a frequent inspiration in their work, serves as a symbol that reinforces the representation of non-heteronormative relationships, providing space for a more free and inclusive exploration of sexual identity.

Nizwa Putri Salsabila Gulo; Rosramadhana Rosramadhana

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This study aims to examine the implementation of the selapanan tradition among Javanese postpartum women in Limau Manis Village, and to understand the meaning and community perceptions of this practice in the context of modern life. The selapanan tradition is part of local wisdom that has been passed down from generation to generation and has important value in postpartum maternal care. This study uses a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach, which allows researchers to understand cultural practices in depth through direct interaction with the community. Data collection techniques include participant observation, in-depth interviews with mothers who practice the tradition, community leaders, and traditional birth attendants, as well as documentation and field notes. The results show that selapanan is still preserved and practiced by the people of Limau Manis Village, although it has undergone several forms of adaptation to modern developments and modern medical guidelines. In its implementation, this tradition uses various natural ingredients such as parem (traditional body scrub), pilis (forehead concoction to refresh the eyes and mind), bengkungan (cloth to wrap the stomach), gerita (a kind of stagen or body binder), and the consumption of herbal medicine as part of physical care and body recovery. In addition to its physical aspects, selapanan also has a psychological dimension, providing emotional comfort and social support to postpartum mothers, thereby helping to prevent psychological disorders such as baby blues syndrome. This tradition serves not only as a form of traditional healthcare but also as a symbol of social solidarity and respect for local cultural values. Amidst the tide of modernization, preserving selapanan is crucial as a cultural identity that remains relevant. This study concludes that despite adjustments to medical developments, the selapanan tradition continues to play a significant role in maintaining maternal well-being and strengthening Javanese cultural values in the modern era.

Rusdin Rusdin; Abd. Rauf Muhammad Amin; St. Halimang

Jurnal Riset Rumpun Ilmu Sosial, Politik dan Humaniora 2025 Pusat Riset dan Inovasi Nasional

This research is motivated by the importance of understanding the niqab (face veil) as a religious symbol and an identity marker for Muslim women, which continues to spark public debate in Indonesia. The niqab is often viewed from various perspectives—religious, cultural, social, and political—making it a controversial topic. These differing viewpoints highlight the need for a deeper exploration of the meaning and practice of wearing the niqab, especially within Islamic higher education institutions. The study aims to examine both the normative and sociological aspects of niqab use among female students at Ma’had Al-Birr, Muhammadiyah University (Unismuh) Makassar. This institution is known for having a significant number of students who wear the niqab, each with different backgrounds and motivations, ranging from theological beliefs to personal convictions and environmental influences. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a field-based approach. It combines normative Islamic theological perspectives with sociological analysis, using data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that students perceive the niqab not merely as a religious obligation to cover one's aurat (parts of the body that should be concealed), but also as a symbol of piety, honor, obedience, and personal ijtihad (independent reasoning) in practicing Islamic teachings. An inclusive campus environment supports these students in engaging freely in both academic and social activities. However, challenges still arise, particularly in the form of stereotypes and perceptions of exclusivity that some individuals associate with niqab wearers. These misconceptions underscore the importance of cross-perspective understanding in addressing this phenomenon. This study is expected to contribute to the development of campus policies that support freedom of expression, uphold mutual respect, and promote a more inclusive, open, and tolerant atmosphere within Islamic higher education institutions—one that embraces the diversity of religious practices and encourages respectful coexistence.