<![CDATA[Lacak is a local wisdom of the Malay community in Jambi that functions as a head covering for men in traditional clothing. This cultural heritage has a philosophical meaning that reflects noble values such as responsibility, honor, and determination. However, in Teluk Village, Batang Hari Regency, the interest and understanding of the younger generation towards Lacak has declined due to the influence of globalization and low local cultural literacy. This study aims to (1) identify the character values contained in the shape, folds, and function of Lacak according to the local wisdom of the Teluk Village community, and (2) formulate strategies for preserving Lacak as a medium for character education for the younger generation. The method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through participatory observation, interviews with traditional leaders and educators, and review of traditional documents. The analysis was conducted using a symbolic-philosophical approach to interpret the meaning of character values in Lacak. The results of the study show that Lacak Melayu Jambi contains three main values, namely craftsmanship (neatness), authority (honor), and determination (responsibility). Effective preservation strategies include integrating Lacak values into school extracurricular activities, establishing youth clubs, and fostering collaboration between schools and local Malay Customary Institutions. In this way, Lacak can serve as a medium for character education that fosters pride in cultural identity and strengthens the character of the younger generation in Jambi;ABSTRAKLacak merupakan kearifan lokal masyarakat Melayu Jambi yang berfungsi sebagai penutup kepala pria dalam pakaian adat. Warisan budaya ini memiliki makna filosofis yang mencerminkan nilai-nilai luhur seperti tanggung jawab, kehormatan, dan keteguhan. Namun, di Desa Teluk, Kabupaten Batang Hari, minat dan pemahaman generasi muda terhadap Lacak menurun akibat pengaruh globalisasi dan rendahnya literasi budaya lokal. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) mengidentifikasi nilai-nilai karakter yang terkandung dalam bentuk, lipatan, dan fungsi Lacak menurut kearifan lokal masyarakat Desa Teluk, serta (2) merumuskan strategi pelestarian Lacak sebagai media pendidikan karakter bagi generasi muda. Metode yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif dengan teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi partisipatif, wawancara dengan tokoh adat dan pendidik, serta telaah dokumen adat. Analisis dilakukan dengan pendekatan simbolik-filosofis untuk menafsirkan makna nilai karakter dalam Lacak. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Lacak Melayu Jambi mengandung tiga nilai utama, yaitu kerajinan (kerapian), kewibawaan (kehormatan), dan keteguhan (tanggung jawab). Strategi pelestarian yang efektif meliputi integrasi nilai Lacak dalam kegiatan ekstrakurikuler sekolah, pembentukan sanggar oleh pemuda, dan kolaborasi antara sekolah dengan Lembaga Adat Melayu setempat. Dengan demikian, Lacak dapat berperan sebagai media pendidikan karakter yang mampu menumbuhkan kebanggaan identitas budaya dan memperkuat karakter generasi muda di Jambi.]]>
