<![CDATA[Maluku is a multicultural region where communities with different religious and cultural backgrounds have interacted for generations. The history of social conflict in Maluku shows that differences between groups can become a challenge in maintaining social stability. However, local cultural institutions such as Pela Gandong continue to play an important role in rebuilding trust and strengthening relationships among communities. This study aims to analyze the role of indigenous power relations in maintaining social cohesion in post-conflict multicultural communities in Maluku. This research applies a qualitative case study approach involving 18 informants consisting of four customary leaders, three religious leaders, three local government representatives, six community members, and two young people. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. The collected data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns of customary authority, social interaction, and conflict prevention mechanisms. The study is expected to reveal that indigenous authority through Pela Gandong not only functions as a cultural tradition but also operates as a form of social power that influences community behavior, strengthens solidarity, and supports peaceful relations between different groups. This research contributes to the understanding of how local cultural power can complement formal institutions in maintaining social cohesion within multicultural societies.]]>
