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This research investigates the concepts of heaven and hell within Nias culture and compares them with Catholic Church teachings, exploring their implications for Catholic Religious Education (PAK). Driven by the disparity in eschatological understanding between local culture and Catholic doctrine, and the crucial role of inculturation in faith life, a qualitative approach employing literature review was adopted. Data sources included Church documents, books, and relevant scholarly journals. Findings reveal that Nias culture perceives post-mortem existence not as a dualistic heaven or hell, but as a continuation in the spirit world, influenced by social status and adherence to tradition. In contrast, Catholic teachings define heaven and hell as outcomes of humanity's relationship with God. The inculturation process highlights a dialogue between cultural values and Christian faith, demonstrating that integrating local cultural values into PAK can enhance students' faith experience, making learning more relevant and transformative within their contexts.

This study is motivated by the limited public understanding of the symbolic meaning of properties used in the Grombyang Dance of Pemalang, where most audiences merely enjoy the performance without recognizing the cultural values embedded within it. This research aims to examine and explain the symbolic meanings of the properties used in the Grombyang Dance of Pemalang as performed at Sanggar Seni Kaloka Pemalang. The method employed is a descriptive qualitative approach using semiotic analysis based on Charles Sanders Peirce, with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study indicate that the performance structure of the Grombyang Dance of Pemalang consists of three main parts: the opening, the core, and the closing, supported by various elements such as theme, movement, performers, makeup, costume, musical accompaniment, stage setting, and properties. The semiotic analysis reveals that the symbolic meaning of the properties can be understood through the relationship between representamen, object, and interpretant. The main property, the irus (ladle), functions as a symbol that not only represents the act of scooping Grombyang soup but also carries a belief-related meaning as a bringer of fortune in trading activities. In conclusion, the properties in the Grombyang Dance of Pemalang serve not only as aesthetic elements but also as a medium of symbolic communication that reflects cultural, social, and belief values within the community. Therefore, they are important to be preserved and more deeply understood by the public.

Indonesia is a country rich in cultural diversity, one of which is Javanese culture which is full of philosophical values ​​and symbolic meanings in every practice, including in the traditional wedding procession. One of the important rituals in Javanese traditional weddings is the Panggih Manten ritual, which represents the meeting between the bride and groom with various symbols of life, hope and blessings. Along with the development of the times and the flow of modernization, people's understanding of the philosophical meaning of the ritual has shifted. Some people still carry out this tradition as a hereditary custom without understanding the values ​​contained in it, even giving rise to debates regarding its suitability with Islamic teachings. This study aims to analyze the practice of the Panggih Manten ritual in Javanese traditional wedding traditions and review its suitability with the 'Urf argument in Islamic law. The research method used is qualitative with a juridical-normative approach, while the research location was carried out in Pengkol village, Mantingan District. The results of the study show that the Panggih Manten ritual is basically acceptable in Islamic law as long as it does not conflict with the principles of sharia. Based on analysis from the perspective of al-'urf, several aspects of the Panggih Manten ritual, such as muter asem (the act of making offerings), and the belief in disasters, contain elements that are inconsistent with Islamic law and could potentially lead to idolatry, thus being categorized as al-'urf al-fāsid. Therefore, the Panggih Manten tradition can be preserved through reinterpretation of its meaning and the elimination of elements that contradict Islamic teachings, thus aligning it with Islamic principles.

This study aims to examine the application of an expository approach in the scriptwriting of the documentary film "Jejak Rasa," which highlights Southern Chinese cuisine in Bandung as a representation of cultural acculturation. The background of this research is based on the declining interest of the younger generation in traditional culinary arts due to the influence of globalization and social media trends. The methods used included literature research, field observations, and interviews with relevant sources, such as culinary entrepreneurs and museum officials. The results show that the expository approach is effective in conveying information systematically, factually, and easily understood through the use of voice-over narration as the main direction of the story. Furthermore, the use of an implied first-person perspective creates an emotional connection between the audience and the material presented. This documentary serves not only as an information medium but also as a means of education and preservation of Peranakan Chinese culinary culture. By combining visual elements, narrative, and interviews, this documentary comprehensively presents historical, social, and cultural values. Therefore, this work is expected to raise public awareness of the importance of preserving culinary cultural heritage amidst modern developments.

This study aims to explore the practice of Buddhist marriage in the Semarang Regency, which is carried out alongside traditions and local wisdom. The research employs a qualitative approach using a cultural anthropology method to examine the influence of Javanese beliefs on the wedding rituals of Buddhist communities in the Semarang Regency area. Data were collected through the review of relevant literature and interviews with selected informants, chosen based on their background and expertise related to the research topic. The collected data were then analyzed in depth to identify the values of local wisdom within Javanese society that coexist harmoniously with Buddhist wedding ceremonies. The findings indicate that Buddhist marriage in Semarang Regency is not merely a legal recognition of union between two individuals entering married life, but also represents a socio-cultural phenomenon reflecting processes of adaptation and negotiation between religious teachings and local cultural values. Buddhist communities in Semarang Regency conduct marriage ceremony according to Buddhist religious traditions combined with Javanese practices. The religious ceremony is performed at a temple and led by a Romo Pandita, and the the wedding ceremonies continue according to Javanese culture. Javanese beliefs remain strongly influential, shaping various stages of marriage, from partner selection and proposal rituals to ceremonial practices during the wedding. Beliefs related to weton calculations, auspicious days, slametan rituals, the preparation of sesajen, and ceremonial elements within wedding receptions continue to maintain their place amid the dynamics of modern society.

Cultural education plays a vital role in fostering children’s creative thinking skills. Batik, as Indonesia’s cultural heritage, embodies artistic values, symbols, and life meanings that can be utilized as a medium of learning. This study aims to describe the implementation of batik-based cultural education in enhancing the creativity of Indonesian children at Sanggar Bimbingan Al Ikhlas Sungai Penchala, Malaysia. The research method employed is qualitative with a case study design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that batik activities improve children’s ability to generate ideas, select colors, and create patterns based on imagination. Moreover, children demonstrate increased confidence in expressing ideas through artwork. Teachers serve as facilitators who guide, motivate, and provide examples during the creative process. The conclusion indicates that batik-based cultural education enhances creativity, self-confidence, and cultural identity awareness among Indonesian children living abroad. This study contributes to the discourse on cultural education by highlighting batik as an effective medium for creative learning and identity development in diaspora contexts.

Dairi Regency is known as a regency that has a natural charm that can be a potential attraction that can attract many tourists. Puncak Sidiangkat is one of the destinations that is often visited because of its natural beauty which is still very beautiful and green. So this research was conducted with the aim of planning hotels and tourist areas using ecovillage design. Puncak Sidiangkat which has the opportunity to build hotels and glamping along with other tourist facilities, develops knowledge about the advantages of natural resources in Dairi Regency which blends directly with nature in an effort to achieve economic sustainability. The design of hotel and tourist areas is inseparable from how to design buildings that have a positive effect on the surrounding environment, especially the development of mountain tourism infrastructure and facilities as an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient tourism sector. This study also considers local cultural values, community participation, and the use of sustainable materials to ensure long-term environmental balance. Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy systems, proper waste management, and landscape conservation is emphasized to support eco-friendly tourism development. Through this approach, the project is expected to enhance tourist experience while preserving natural resources and improving the local economy.

This study aims to examine the normative construction and practical implementation of criminal sanctions against narcotics abusers from the perspectives of Islamic criminal law and Indonesian positive law, as well as to formulate an integrative policy model that is more just, humane, and context-sensitive in Bungo Regency. Narcotics abuse constitutes a multidimensional problem involving legal, social, moral, and public health dimensions. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is required to integrate the normative values of Islamic criminal law with the national legal system. This research employs a normative-empirical approach using comparative legal analysis, examining statutory regulations, doctrines of Islamic criminal law, and law enforcement practices at the local level. The findings indicate that Islamic criminal law frames narcotics abuse within the protection of maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah, particularly the preservation of intellect (ḥifẓ al-‘aql) and life (ḥifẓ al-nafs), thereby emphasizing not only punitive but also educational and rehabilitative orientations through the instrument of ta‘zīr. Meanwhile, Indonesian positive law, particularly Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics, provides legal space for rehabilitation; however, its implementation still encounters structural and cultural challenges. This study concludes that integrating Islamic criminal law principles with the national legal framework may produce a more responsive sentencing model that upholds substantive justice, human rights protection, and effective narcotics control. Policy reformulation grounded in religious values, restorative approaches, and social rehabilitation is recommended as a strategic direction for national criminal law reform.

Indonesia is a country rich in cultural diversity, one of which is the Tedak Siten tradition that is still preserved by Javanese communities, including those in Bancar Village. This tradition is not merely a cultural heritage but also contains important educational and spiritual values in community life. This study aims to understand the meaning of the Tedak Siten tradition, identify the educational and spiritual values embedded within it, and analyze it from the perspective of Islam Nusantara. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques, with informants selected purposively from community members directly involved in the tradition. The findings reveal that Tedak Siten functions as a medium for character education, instilling values such as independence, responsibility, and perseverance from an early age. In addition, the tradition strengthens spiritual values through prayers and expressions of gratitude to Allah SWT. From the perspective of Islam Nusantara, Tedak Siten reflects a harmonious acculturation between local culture and Islamic teachings without contradicting the principle of monotheism. The implications of this study indicate that local traditions can be utilized as contextual learning resources in Islamic education while also serving as a means of preserving valuable cultural heritage. Therefore, Tedak Siten remains relevant not only as a tradition but also as a medium for character building and strengthening religious values in society.

This research is prompted by the unique narrative of Rahab, a Canaanite woman who occupies a critical theological position in Israel’s history of salvation despite her status as an outsider to the chosen people. The primary focus of this study is to explore the dimensions of Rahab’s faith and God’s sovereignty as recorded in Joshua 2:1-12. This study aims to analyze how the confession of faith from a marginalized individual aligns with God's sovereign plan and to determine the relevance of these values for contemporary Christian witness. The method employed is a qualitative approach utilizing library research and exegetical analysis of the text in Joshua 2:1-12. The findings indicate that Rahab's faith was not merely an act of self-preservation but a theological response to the formidable power of God that transcends ethnic boundaries and social status. God's sovereignty is proven capable of working through unexpected subjects to fulfill His divine purpose. The implications of this research assert that modern Christian witness must be inclusive and transformative, where the courage to declare God's truth amidst threatening situations constitutes a tangible form of living faith. The church is called to perceive God's sovereignty as the fundamental basis for mission and witness, unrestricted by social or cultural exclusivity.    

This research is entitled Oko Mama as a Tool of Political Consolidation in Society (Atoin Pah Meto) (Case Study of the 2023 Village Head Election in Saenam Village, West Miomaffo District, TTU). The main problem of this research is how oko mama as a tool of political consolidation in the village head election in Saenam Village, in establishing relations between candidates and the community in the village head election in Saenam Village, West Miomaffo District, TTU. The theory used in this study is the theory of political consolidation which refers to oko mama as a tool of political consolidation in Society (Atoin Pah Meto). The results of this study indicate that Oko Mama has several functions, namely as a cultural, as a form of appreciation to guests to convey a purpose, where oko mama is a tool for political consolidation ahead of the village head elections. However, in this study, oko mama does not provide a certainty for the community to choose the candidate due to several factors including educational factors and the community's perception of the candidate. The conclusion of this study is that Oko Mama is a tool for political consolidation in Sgenam Village, but it cannot guarantee that the candidate will obtain the most votes and win the village head election due to educational level and various public perceptions about the candidate. Traditional leaders have power in Saenam Village, but they cannot unite the community if the consolidation tool used is Oko Mama.

Pantun, as a form of traditional oral literature, plays a crucial role in the development of regional literature learning and character education. This study aims to analyze the application of pantun as a learning medium capable of revitalizing students' character values ​​in the modern era. The study was conducted through a literature review of several relevant scientific articles, including those by Purnama et al. (2023), Andayani (2024), Yoga (2024), and Rozani (2025), all of which discuss the relationship between pantun, learning, and character development. The analysis shows that pantun contains character values ​​such as religiosity, honesty, responsibility, courtesy, hard work, and love of country. Through pantun reciprocal activities, the creation of thematic pantun, and the integration of pantun into a local wisdom-based curriculum, regional literature learning can be an effective means of developing polite, creative, and cultured personalities. The application of pantun in the classroom not only strengthens appreciation for regional literature but also serves as a concrete strategy for revitalizing national character. Thus, pantun is no longer merely a legacy of oral tradition, but rather an instrument for moral and cultural education relevant to the needs of 21st-century education.    

This study aims to analyze the symbolic meaning of the mangulosi tradition in Toba Batak traditional wedding ceremonies using Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected from visual media such as YouTube and TikTok, supported by informants familiar with Toba Batak culture. The findings reveal that meaning in the mangulosi tradition is constructed through three levels of signification: denotation, connotation, and myth. At the denotative level, mangulosi is understood as the act of giving ulos in a wedding ceremony. At the connotative level, ulos and the ritual process convey symbolic meanings such as blessings, protection, harmony, and the strengthening of social and kinship relationships. At the myth level, the tradition reinforces the cultural ideology that marriage is considered legitimate when it receives recognition and blessings from family and customary authorities. Quantitatively, the findings show that artifacts are dominated by visual connotative meanings (40%), while ritual actions emphasize non-verbal (30%) and verbal (20%) meanings. Therefore, the mangulosi tradition is not only a ceremonial practice but also a medium for preserving cultural identity and social values within the Toba Batak community.

This community service was carried out at the Abar traditional pottery craftsman studio "Titian Hidup" with the aim of strengthening business competitiveness through the development of branding strategies based on local wisdom. Pottery crafts in Papua, especially in Kampung Abar, not only represent technical skills, but also contain philosophical values that reflect the history and cultural life of the indigenous peoples. However, until now pottery products do not have a brand identity that is able to express the richness of meaning and character that they have. The method of service includes deepening the philosophical character of the product, the application of technology, and socialization to craftsmen. This approach is designed to build awareness and knowledge about the importance of branding as an instrument to strengthen business identity. The results of the service show that artisans are beginning to understand the concept of professional branding, including product differentiation, cultural narratives, and the use of digital technology to expand market access. In addition, this activity encourages the adaptation of artisans to modern market developments without losing the cultural roots that characterize the product. Thus, this service contributes to the preservation of local culture while increasing the sustainability of the traditional Papuan pottery craft business through a structured and contextual branding strategy.

This paper explores the role of Mary as a model of salvation in Catholic faith, focusing on the understanding of Mariology within the cultural context of the Ende-Lio people in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Mary is regarded not only as the Mother of Jesus Christ but also as an example of faith marked by humility, obedience, and hope. Her humility and willingness to accept God’s will, especially in the Annunciation, serve as a concrete inspiration for Catholics to respond faithfully to God’s call. Within the Ende-Lio culture, which values loyalty, solidarity, respect for ancestors, and harmony with nature, Mary becomes a figure closely connected to daily life. Devotions such as the rosary, pilgrimages to Marian grottoes, and the celebration of the Marian months highlight Mary’s living presence in both the faith and cultural traditions of the community. Thus, Mary serves as a bridge between the Gospel and local culture, revealing a Church that is rooted in its own soil yet remains faithful to Christ. This reflection affirms that contextual faith is a living faith deeply rooted in local culture while open to the saving work of God.

Public space revitalization is an important strategy in urban development aimed at improving the quality of urban environments while stimulating social interaction and local economic activities. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Motang Rua Field revitalization program in Manggarai Regency and assess the extent to which the program achieved its intended development objectives. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through field observations, in-depth interviews with key informants including local government officials, project contractors, small business actors, and community members, as well as documentation related to the revitalization program. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, supported by triangulation techniques to ensure data validity. The findings indicate that the revitalization program demonstrates a high level of relevance to community needs and aligns with the regional development vision of Ruteng Kota Molas. The implementation process shows strong coherence through effective inter-institutional coordination and consistency between planning and execution. The revitalization has also proven effective in improving public facilities, enhancing community social activities, and stimulating local economic growth through increased micro and small business activities. Furthermore, the program was implemented efficiently in terms of budget management and project timeline. The revitalization also contributes to strengthening socio-cultural values through the preservation of the historical figure Motang Rua and shows strong sustainability potential through increased public utilization of the revitalized space.

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the Papua Special Autonomy policy in improving the welfare of indigenous communities by reviewing the achievement of policy objectives, integration and coordination between institutions, and policy adaptation to the socio-cultural conditions of the local community. The approach used is qualitative with the Qualitative Secondary Analysis (QSA) method, utilizing various secondary data sources such as policy documents, government reports, and relevant research and academic journals. The results of the study indicate that the Papua Special Autonomy policy was designed as an affirmative policy aimed at accelerating regional development, improving community welfare, and recognizing the rights of indigenous communities. This policy has produced several positive results, especially in increasing regional fiscal allocations, developing infrastructure, and expanding community access to education and health services. In addition, the establishment of special institutions such as the Papuan People's Assembly provides space for the representation of indigenous people's culture in the regional government system. However, the study also shows that the Special Autonomy policy faces several challenges, including suboptimal inter-institutional coordination, limited institutional capacity of local governments in managing Special Autonomy funds, and the incomplete integration of indigenous socio-cultural values ​​in the planning and implementation of development programs. Therefore, strengthening policy governance, increasing accountability in fund management, and expanding indigenous community participation are crucial factors in enhancing the effectiveness of Papua's Special Autonomy policy. This research provides theoretical contributions to public policy development, particularly in the context of implementing asymmetric decentralization and culture-based development policies.

The phenomenon of language globalization has brought a significant influence on the communication patterns and cultural identity of Generation Z, including those who adhere to indigenous belief systems. The global trend that emphasizes the dominance of foreign languages often leads to a decline in appreciation for local languages and the spiritual values embedded within them. This article aims to examine the role of multilingual literacy as a means of strengthening the spirituality of Generation Z adherents of indigenous beliefs in facing the challenges of language globalization. The research method used is a literature study by reviewing various theoretical sources and relevant research findings from the past five years. The results indicate that multilingual literacy not only enhances cross-cultural communication skills but also strengthens the spiritual awareness and cultural identity of Generation Z through the preservation of local languages and the interpretation of local values in a modern context. Therefore, multilingual literacy can serve as an effective strategy for developing a generation that is religious, has strong character, and remains rooted in its traditional beliefs amidst the rapid flow of globalization.

The Panji Story is one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) that has historical, cultural, and local identity values, especially for the people of Kediri. However, currently, the community's understanding of the Panji Story tends to be limited and is often considered only as a romantic story, so that the historical and cultural values contained therein are not fully understood. This activity aims to strengthen the community's understanding of the Panji Story as a source of history and local cultural heritage through a national seminar. The activity was conducted in the form of a seminar involving presentations by expert speakers, interactive discussions, and question and answer sessions with participants from various backgrounds, such as students, the general public, and cultural activists. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' understanding and awareness of the historical, cultural, and educational value of the Panji Story. Participants not only understood the diversity of versions of the Panji Story, but also began to view it as an important part of local cultural identity that needs to be preserved and sustained. This activity showed that national seminars can be an effective educational medium in building collective public awareness of the sustainable preservation of local history and culture.

This study examines the dynamics of Islamic civilization and cultural expressions in Southeast Asia through a comparative analysis of Muslim communities in Indonesia and Thailand. Southeast Asia represents a unique region where Islam has interacted with diverse local traditions, producing distinctive cultural forms and civilizational patterns. The research aims to explore how Islamic values, cultural traditions, and historical experiences shape the development of Muslim societies in both countries.Using a qualitative comparative approach, this study analyzes historical sources, academic literature, and socio-cultural practices within Muslim communities in Indonesia and Thailand. The research focuses on three main aspects: the historical development of Islam, the interaction between Islamic teachings and local cultures, and the role of cultural practices in shaping contemporary Muslim identity.  The findings reveal that Islamic civilization in Southeast Asia is characterized by adaptability, cultural negotiation, and pluralistic expressions. In Indonesia, Islamic cultural expressions tend to be more institutionalized and integrated within national cultural frameworks, while in Thailand, Muslim communities maintain strong cultural identities through local traditions and religious institutions despite existing within a predominantly Buddhist society.  This study contributes to the broader discourse on Islamic civilization by demonstrating that cultural diversity and local adaptation play significant roles in shaping Muslim societies in Southeast Asia. Understanding these dynamics provides deeper insight into the relationship between religion, culture, and civilization in pluralistic societies.