<![CDATA[The fishing community of Air Bangis, Pasaman, West Sumatra, has long been known for its strong religious life. At the same time, local mystical beliefs continue to shape their religious and cultural practices, exemplified by the malimo bagan tradition, which is believed to boost fish catches. Although these fishermen utilize modern satellite-based technology to locate fish, some attribute suboptimal catches to kaboji. Against this backdrop, this study examined the ritual’s execution, the actors involved, and the symbolic significance of the various paraphernalia and practices associated with malimo bagan, employing an Islamic sociology approach to local tradition and culture. The study used a qualitative methodology, involving in-depth interviews and observation. The findings showed that the datu plays a pivotal role in negotiating the relationship between Islamic teachings and local mysticism, thereby ensuring the malimo bagan tradition retains legitimacy within this predominantly Muslim fishing community. These findings indicated that the persistence of the malimo bagan tradition is not merely an act of preserving ancestral custom; rather, it reflects an ongoing negotiation between Islamic teachings, local belief systems, and the lived realities of coastal communities. Thus, this study contributed to the understanding that religious practices among maritime communities do not contradict with Islam and local beliefs; instead, they can create a space for negotiation where both elements interact, adapt, and gain social legitimacy within coastal life.]]>
