<![CDATA[This study aims to describe the integration of Balinese local wisdom in picture story media as an effort to strengthen character and increase reading interest among fourth-grade elementary school students. The background of this research is based on the low reading interest of students and the importance of instilling character education from an early age through contextual and engaging learning. Picture story media was chosen because it combines visual and textual elements, making it easier for elementary school students to understand. Furthermore, the integration of Balinese local wisdom in learning media is expected to instill cultural values, preserve local traditions, and build student character in accordance with the noble values of Balinese society. This study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive qualitative design. The research subjects consist of fourth-grade teachers and fourth-grade elementary school students. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and documentation. Observation was used to understand the learning process and the use of picture story media in the classroom; interviews were conducted with teachers and students to obtain information regarding reading interest and character strengthening; and documentation was used to complement the research data. Data analysis employed the Miles and Huberman model, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. To ensure data validity, source triangulation and technique triangulation were used. The findings reveal a research gap in previous studies that have not specifically examined the integration of Balinese local wisdom in picture story media as a simultaneous effort to strengthen character and reading interest. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on the integration of Tri Hita Karana values within picture story media and its practical contribution to character education and literacy development in elementary schools. The results show that the integration of Balinese local wisdom in picture story media is able to increase students' interest in reading, facilitate understanding of story content, and instill character values such as discipline, responsibility, mutual cooperation, environmental care, and respect for local culture. The practical implications of this research indicate that picture story media based on Balinese local wisdom can serve as an innovative alternative learning medium to support literacy and character education in elementary schools. The data analysis technique is briefly described, and the research contribution is clearly stated.]]>
