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This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic texts in depth. The results of the study show that the figurative language in the poems does not only function as rhetorical decoration or mere linguistic ornamentation, but has a strong and essential symbolic function in conveying hidden messages and the poet's inner emotions. Symbols such as "storm", "refrigerator", "twilight", "window", "door", "river", and others are not only concrete images, but convey deep meanings related to inner suffering, past memories, the search for self-identity, feelings of alienation, and the search for the universal meaning of life. In addition, this study also identifies various types of figurative language used by Joko Pinurbo in the anthology, including metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, synecdoche, paradox, and irony. All types of figurative language are skillfully used to enrich the meaning of poetry and deepen the aesthetic experience of readers, allowing them to feel and reproduce the messages hidden behind the words. Thus, this study confirms that the use of figurative language in poetry is not only a literary technique, but also a powerful medium of expression and a means of communicating complex meanings in modern literary works. This study discusses the symbolic meaning contained in the use of figurative language in the poetry anthology Selamat Menunaikan Ibadah Puisi by Joko Pinurbo. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a semiotic analysis method as a theoretical basis, which allows researchers to interpret the signs and symbols in the poetic text in depth.

This study examines the phenomenon of the religious jargon “Go Berkah No Riba” (Go Blessed, No Interest) as a digital marketing communication strategy employed by entrepreneurs on social media, particularly Facebook. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and visual discourse analysis, this research seeks to understand how the jargon is interpreted, constructed, and widely disseminated in the context of product marketing and business opportunities. The findings indicate that “Go Berkah No Riba” functions not only as a marker of religious identity but also as a rhetorical device that combines spiritual values with aspirations for material success. Visual analysis of promotional materials, such as flyers and Facebook posts, reveals the use of hyperbolic language, symbolic imagery—such as the Kaaba and piles of money—and religious narratives designed to build credibility and persuade potential consumers. The integration of religious elements with economic appeal creates a sharia-compliant business image that simultaneously promises profitability. However, the study also uncovers ambiguity in the use of this jargon. On the one hand, it can strengthen the image of a business operating ethically according to Islamic principles. On the other hand, it risks being exploited merely as a marketing gimmick without a strong foundation in ethical business practices. This creates the potential for a gap between the religious message communicated and the actual business conduct. The findings underscore the importance of critical literacy in understanding religious communication strategies within the digital business sphere. Consistency between religious messaging and real-world business practices is crucial for maintaining consumer trust and avoiding the excessive commodification of religious values. Therefore, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of religion-based marketing communication in the era of digital transformation.

This research investigates the cultural significance of the transformation in the Ngaben ceremony, a central cremation ritual in Balinese Hindu tradition, focusing on the shift from traditional firewood-based methods to modern gas-based cremation practices. The Ngaben ceremony holds profound religious, philosophical, and social meaning, symbolizing the liberation of the soul from worldly ties and its journey to the afterlife. In recent decades, technological advancements and socio-environmental considerations have prompted many communities in Bali to adopt gas cremation systems, offering greater efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and lower operational costs. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach, this study draws on in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to explore how this transition affects cultural meaning, community values, and religious interpretations. The research compares the symbolic elements embedded in traditional and modern methods, examining how changes in materials, process duration, and ceremonial aesthetics influence the perceived authenticity and spiritual significance of the ritual. Findings reveal that while some community members view the adoption of gas cremation as a pragmatic adaptation that aligns with contemporary needs, others express concern about the erosion of cultural heritage and the diminished role of traditional craftsmanship. Furthermore, the study highlights the adaptive strategies employed by Balinese Hindu communities to integrate modern technology while preserving essential spiritual values, such as maintaining ritual sequences, symbolic offerings, and priest-led prayers. The analysis underscores that cultural transformation within religious practices is not a simple replacement of old methods with new ones, but rather a process of negotiation between tradition and innovation. Ultimately, this research contributes to broader discussions on cultural resilience, religious continuity, and the dynamic interaction between technological change and sacred tradition in contemporary Balinese Hindu society.

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of violence experienced by individuals in the early adulthood age range (18–25 years), which is often a manifestation of unresolved traumatic experiences. Unmanaged trauma can have profound psychological impacts, affecting an individual's identity, social relationships, and outlook on life. However, within the framework of positive psychology, there is the concept of Post Traumatic Growth (PTG), which explains the potential for psychological growth that can emerge after an individual experiences severe stress or trauma. PTG includes positive changes in oneself, increased meaning in life, personal strength, and appreciation for life. The concept of PTG is the main foundation in the creation of abstract sculptures that attempt to represent the psychological journey of victims of violence, from destructive conditions to recovery and self-awareness. Abstract forms are used as a visual medium to reflect inner conflict, identity fragmentation, and the complex process of internal transformation. The choice of abstraction allows for free expression of realistic forms, thus presenting a profound symbolic interpretation. The method of creation of the work is carried out through an artistic approach that emphasizes the exploration of form, texture, material, and space in three-dimensional expression. This process not only produces visual objects but also creates expressive symbols that contain narratives of psychological healing. The sculpture is presented as a contemplative medium that invites the audience to experience, understand, and interpret the inner journey of victims of violence. The resulting creation demonstrates that abstract sculpture can be a powerful means of emotional communication, facilitating public understanding of the experience of trauma and the potential for post-traumatic growth. Thus, this work not only serves as an artistic representation of the inner dynamics of victims of violence but also serves as a reflective medium that fosters awareness of the human capacity to recover and thrive after experiencing profound suffering.

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.

This research is entitled "The Role of Maneleo in Conflict Resolution in East Busalangga Village, Northwest Rote District, Rote Ndao Regency". The main focus of this research is to examine in depth the role of Maneleo, which is the term for the highest tribal chief in the traditional social structure in East Busalangga Village, in resolving conflicts that occur within the community. Each leo or tribe in this village has its own social structure, with the highest layer called mana leo (leo mane), who holds the highest authority in customary decision-making. The purpose of this research is to determine the role of Maneleo in resolving conflicts according to customary law in East Busalangga Village. The research uses a descriptive method with a qualitative approach, so that it is able to describe the real conditions in the field based on data obtained from interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of the study indicate that Maneleo has a central role in the conflict resolution process. Although the village head, traditional head, and community leaders are involved in the mediation and discussion process, the final decision remains in the hands of Maneleo. Their roles include mediation (compromise), unifying conflicting communities (unifying), and preserving customary and cultural values (adat/budaya). With a deep understanding of customary norms and social conditions, Maneleo are able to resolve conflicts peacefully, maintain harmony, and prevent divisions within the community. This research confirms that Maneleo are not merely symbols of customary leadership, but key figures in maintaining local social and cultural stability. This role also demonstrates that customary-based conflict resolution mechanisms remain highly relevant in rural communities, particularly in the Rote Ndao region.

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.

This study aims to examine the differences and similarities between continental and local Indonesian cuisine, focusing on the case studies of Beef Stroganoff and Rendang. The study covers aspects such as ingredients, cooking techniques, presentation, and the cultural values embedded in these dishes. The research employs a qualitative descriptive case study approach, collecting data through observation, interviews, and literature review. The results indicate that continental cuisine emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, often favoring simplicity and freshness, and applies quick cooking techniques such as sautéing or grilling. Presentation is also a key element, with attention to aesthetic appeal and portion control. Beef Stroganoff, for example, is known for its creamy texture and elegant plating. In contrast, local Indonesian cuisine, as exemplified by Rendang, is characterized by its complex spice blends and slow cooking methods, often taking hours to achieve the desired taste and texture. Rendang holds deep social and cultural meanings, commonly served at ceremonial events or traditional gatherings, symbolizing patience, generosity, and respect for tradition. Despite these differences, both types of cuisine share similar functions in society: they both aim to fulfill nutritional needs, express cultural values, and strengthen social bonds. Food, in both contexts, becomes more than just sustenance—it is a form of identity and communication. This study recommends integrating local culinary studies into the culinary education curricula, especially at vocational and higher education levels. By doing so, students not only learn technical skills but also develop an appreciation for the cultural heritage embodied in Indonesian cuisine. This is essential in the era of globalization, where local identities risk being overshadowed by global culinary trends. Preserving and promoting traditional dishes like Rendang is vital for safeguarding Indonesia’s gastronomic identity and fostering pride in national culture.

In the digital era, local governments face significant challenges in building a positive public image of regional leaders. The changing public communications landscape driven by technological advancements demands public relations (PR) strategies that are not only informative but also able to engage the emotional and symbolic dimensions of society. The main problem identified is the limited effectiveness of PR content strategies in changing public perceptions. Most content still emphasizes the delivery of factual information, but does not optimally develop narratives, symbols, and interactions that can strengthen the leadership image. This study analyzes this problem using the ADO (Antecedent-Decision-Outcome) approach. Within this framework, PR content innovation is positioned as a prerequisite factor (antecedent), digital communication strategies as the decision (decision), and the formation of the regional leader's image as the final outcome (outcome). The study was conducted using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of seven scientific articles that met the inclusion criteria. The analysis is supported by Image Management Theory, Government Communication Theory, and the New Public Governance paradigm, which emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and public participation in governance. Research findings indicate that innovative digital communication strategies—such as the use of social media, visualization of leadership activities, personal narratives, and two-way interactions with citizens—have a significant impact on building and strengthening a positive image of regional leaders. This approach not only increases public trust but also creates more meaningful engagement between leaders and the public. The study's findings confirm that PR plays a strategic role as a key actor in shaping public perceptions of regional leadership in the digital era. The success of image building depends not only on the quality of the message, but also on PR's creativity, consistency, and ability to adapt modern communication technology to meet the dynamics of public information needs and expectations.

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.

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.

Ikat weaving is one of the typical cultural heritage of East Nusa Tenggara, especially the Sikka area in Maumere. This traditional fabric is made through a process of weaving manually by the local community, making it unique and has high artistic value. Even though it is in the modern era, the appeal of ikat woven fabrics remains strong and has not been displaced by the development of the times. The production of this fabric is still actively ongoing and has become a symbol of regional cultural identity that is full of philosophical and aesthetic meaning. This study aims to analyze the influence of price on the purchase decision of Sikka ikat woven fabric by consumers. The research was carried out at the Alok Maumere Market in 2021 with a sample of 96 respondents, who were selected using random sampling techniques. The research method used is quantitative descriptive, with validity, reliability, normality, linearity, and heteroscedasticity testing. The result of the simple linear regression analysis shows an equation: purchase result = 17.140 + 0.603 price. The value of t is calculated (7.993) > t of the table (1.985), so that H₀ is subtracted and H₁ is accepted. This means that price has a significant effect on purchasing decisions. The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.398) shows that price explains 39.8% of the variation in the purchase decision. Thus, it can be concluded that price has a positive influence on consumers' decisions in buying Sikka ikat woven fabrics. This means that the more the price is in line with consumer expectations, the higher the buying interest in this traditional product. This research provides important input for MSME actors and local artisans to be more careful in determining competitive prices while still reflecting the quality and cultural value of the product.

The Golek Gonjing Miring Dance is one of the classical dance works created by Dona Dhian Ginanjar in 2019. This work is interesting to study because it combines two classical Javanese dance styles, namely the soft and feminine Surakarta style and the firm and masculine Yogyakarta style, as a symbol of the duality of women's nature. The theme of this dance tells the story of the angels who came down from heaven to have fun on earth, which is visualized through smooth and expressive choreography with a variety of traditional movements. The accompanying music uses Gendhing Ladrang Gonjing Miring Laras Pelog Nem, which supports the mystical and graceful atmosphere in the performance. Supporting aspects such as make-up, costume design, stage design, and lighting design also strengthen the delivery of artistic and symbolic meaning in this work. This study aims to describe the choreographic form of the Golek Gonjing Miring Dance, musical structure, and supporting visual elements that form an aesthetic unity in the performance. The results of the study show that the Golek Gonjing Miring Dance is not only a medium for preserving Javanese classical dance culture, but also a form of innovation that represents female characters in a more complex way.

This study aims to analyze the influence of learning interest, learning discipline, and critical thinking skills on student learning outcomes in the Simple Financial Processing subject for class XI MPLB at SMK PGRI 2 Sidoarjo. Learning outcomes are understood as skills or abilities acquired by students after participating in the learning process, the success of which is measured through scores in the form of numbers, symbols, or letters. Three factors selected in this study as independent variables are learning interest, learning discipline, and critical thinking skills. This type of research is quantitative research with an explanatory approach, which aims to explain the cause-and-effect relationship between these variables. The population in this study were all 102 class XI MPLB students. The sampling technique used non-probability sampling with a total sampling type, so that the entire population was sampled. Data collection was carried out by distributing questionnaires to students. The data obtained were then analyzed using SPSS version 27 software. Before conducting multiple linear regression analysis, validity and reliability tests were first conducted to ensure that the instruments used were appropriate and consistent in measuring the variables studied. The analysis results show that the three independent variables—learning interest, learning discipline, and critical thinking skills—have a significant influence on student learning outcomes. Therefore, it can be concluded that improvements in these three aspects will positively impact student learning outcomes in the subjects studied.

the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, marking God's intervention in the history of His people and the beginning of a new grain harvest. On the other hand, Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a symbol of victory over sin and death, and the culmination of salvation provided through His sacrifice on the cross. In this context, the Eucharist becomes an important sacrament symbolizing the body and Passover and Easter have deep meanings in their respective religious traditions. Passover (Pesach) celebrates blood of Christ. The bread, as a symbol of His broken body, and the cup, as a symbol of His shed blood, remind Christians of God's infinite sacrifice and love. However, in the early days of Christianity, the practice of the Eucharist was often misunderstood, leading to accusations of cannibalism against Christians. This misunderstanding arose because the terms "body" and "blood" were interpreted literally by outsiders. To counter these accusations, Christian apologists, such as Justin Martyr and Tertullian, attempted to provide a theological explanation for the symbolism, emphasizing that the Eucharist was a spiritual and not a physical act. Thus, both Easter and the Eucharist reflect the profound themes of liberation and hope, as well as the importance of a correct understanding of the symbolism of Christian teaching to avoid harmful misunderstandings. This shows that a proper understanding of religious traditions can strengthen faith and strengthen relationships among believers.

This research aims to explore the deep meaning of the Maena dance as a means of spreading the Gospel among the people of Nias. This research applies a qualitative approach with ethnographic methods. The research process began with a comprehensive literature study regarding Maena dance, Christianity in Nias, as well as studies related to performing arts as a communication medium. Through this step, the researcher seeks to gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical, social, cultural and theological context of the phenomenon under study. Maena Dance is a cultural heritage from Nias that is rich in traditional values, and also has great potential as a means of conveying the Gospel. Through a creative and contextual approach, Maena Dance has succeeded in integrating Christian symbols, Biblical values ​​and spiritual messages into its movements, costumes and poetry. In this way, Maena becomes an effective communication medium for conveying the Gospel message to the community, especially in environments that still value local traditions.

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.

The South Korean entertainment industry, propelled by the global Hallyu wave, continues to thrive internationally. However, it remains influenced by deeply rooted patriarchal norms, especially in the portrayal of women in popular media. This study explores the representation of women in the film K-Pop Demon Hunters (2025) through the lens of Luce Irigaray’s postmodern feminist theory (1985). Using a qualitative content analysis approach, the research investigates the film’s visual, narrative, and symbolic dimensions to examine how female characters are depicted. Unlike the traditional portrayal of passive femininity prevalent in Korean popular culture, K-Pop Demon Hunters presents its female protagonists as active, autonomous, and empowered individuals. These characters express their identities through bodily performance, voice, dance, and emotion—an embodiment of écriture féminine, or feminine writing. The film introduces a symbolic language that allows women to speak from their own experiences, disrupting the male-dominated narrative structures often seen in mainstream media. Additionally, the film challenges patriarchal conventions by offering subversive and multifaceted representations of women’s bodies, relationships, and agency. Rather than reinforcing objectifying tropes, it constructs a space where feminine identity is fluid, expressive, and resistant to hegemonic definitions. This approach not only redefines the role of women within the cinematic narrative but also opens possibilities for alternative gender discourses in Korean media. In doing so, K-Pop Demon Hunters exemplifies how popular media can serve as both a mirror and a critique of societal gender norms.   

Cultural communication plays an important role in maintaining and preserving the values of traditional marine education. In this context, cultural communication serves as a bridge to maintain traditional values while adapting them to the dynamics of the times in the era of modern life, especially the Mandar sailors on Kerayaan Island who have long been known for their maritime traditions inherent in their daily lives. This study aims to analyze the impact of modernization on the traditional practices and maritime cultural identity of the Mandar community. In addition, this study also presents the fact that not only the Bugis tribe is known as reliable sailors in the region, but the Mandar tribe also has a long history as accomplished sailors. The method used in the research uses a qualitative approach with the type of ethnographic research. The data was collected through direct observation in the field and in-depth interviews with local communities. Social change analysis is used as a theoretical framework to understand the maritime cultural transformation that occurs. This research shows that the entry of modern technology has slowly but surely changed the way of life of the Mandar seafaring community. Various cultural symbols that exist today are more widely used for economic purposes only, no longer as a cultural identity that is upheld. This study provides a real picture of how this change at least gives hope, that there will be no total death of traditional sized, there will always be adjustment, imaging and re-creation of new traditional authorities. The ability to survive this tradition is at least quite justified because the emergence of tradition always presupposes the presence of a 'regime of representatives' who has the authority to interpret the symbols and sacred texts of tradition for the purpose of legitimacy of power through cultural communication. Keywords: Mandar Tribe; Culture; Technological Modernization, Social Change

The phenomenon of bullying among teenagers is an increasing and complex social problem, not only occurring in everyday life but also widely represented through mass media, one of which is teen drama. One popular media that highlights this issue is My Nerd Girl Season 1, which shows the reality of bullying in its various forms. The main character, Rea, is depicted as a victim of bullying who experiences verbal, emotional, and social pressure from her environment. This representation illustrates that bullying is not just an individual act, but part of a social construction that is full of meaning. This study aims to explore how bullying is presented in the drama My Nerd Girl Season 1 using Roland Barthes's semiotic approach. The analysis focuses on the denotative, connotative, and mythical meanings contained in the visual and narrative symbols in the bullying scenes. The research data in the form of scene clips showing forms of bullying, are then analyzed to reveal the underlying social ideology. The results show that this drama represents bullying in various forms, ranging from verbal, cyber, physical, to social. These bullying acts are presented as a form of power, domination, and group control over individuals. The emerging connotative meanings indicate that bullying is legitimized by adolescent ideologies regarding popularity, physical appearance standards, and social acceptance in the school environment. The myth constructed through the drama's narrative is that symbolic and social violence is often considered normal or even necessary to maintain a certain social status. Thus, My Nerd Girl Season 1 serves not only as entertainment but also as a medium for social reflection that reveals the reality of bullying among adolescents.