<![CDATA[Lacak is a local wisdom of the Jambi Malay community that functions as a head covering for men in traditional attire and contains philosophical values about responsibility, honor, and steadfastness. However, the interest of the younger generation in Lacak in Teluk Village, Batang Hari Regency, has decreased due to the influence of globalization and low local cultural literacy. This study aims to identify the character values contained in the form, folds, and function of Lacak and formulate a strategy for its preservation as a medium for character education for the younger generation. The study used a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders and educators, and a review of traditional documents. Data were analyzed using a symbolic-philosophical approach to interpret the meaning of characters in the Lacak tradition. The results show that Jambi Malay Lacak contains the main values of craftsmanship, authority, and steadfastness that represent discipline, honor, and responsibility. Effective preservation strategies include integrating Lacak values into school extracurricular activities, establishing cultural studios by youth, and collaboration between schools and local Malay Traditional Institutions. Thus, Lacak can function as a character education medium that strengthens cultural identity and fosters pride in the younger generation towards Jambi's local cultural heritage. ABSTRAKLacak merupakan kearifan lokal masyarakat Melayu Jambi yang berfungsi sebagai penutup kepala pria dalam pakaian adat serta mengandung nilai filosofis tentang tanggung jawab, kehormatan, dan keteguhan. Namun, minat generasi muda terhadap Lacak di Desa Teluk, Kabupaten Batang Hari, mengalami penurunan akibat pengaruh globalisasi dan rendahnya literasi budaya lokal. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengidentifikasi nilai-nilai karakter yang terkandung dalam bentuk, lipatan, dan fungsi Lacak serta merumuskan strategi pelestariannya sebagai media pendidikan karakter bagi generasi muda. Penelitian menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif dengan teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi partisipatif, wawancara mendalam dengan tokoh adat dan pendidik, serta telaah dokumen adat. Data dianalisis menggunakan pendekatan simbolik-filosofis untuk menafsirkan makna karakter dalam tradisi Lacak. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Lacak Melayu Jambi mengandung nilai utama berupa kerajinan, kewibawaan, dan keteguhan yang merepresentasikan disiplin, kehormatan, dan tanggung jawab. Strategi pelestarian yang efektif meliputi integrasi nilai Lacak dalam kegiatan ekstrakurikuler sekolah, pembentukan sanggar budaya oleh pemuda, serta kolaborasi antara sekolah dan Lembaga Adat Melayu setempat. Dengan demikian, Lacak dapat berfungsi sebagai media pendidikan karakter yang memperkuat identitas budaya dan menumbuhkan kebanggaan generasi muda terhadap warisan budaya lokal Jambi.]]>
