Rule of Law Studies Journal
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): Rule of Law Studies Journal

Legal Pluralism and Indigenous Rights: The Case of the Indigenous Forest People of Jambi, Indonesia

Robi Awaludin (Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Intan Lampung, Indonesia)
Zuhraini Zuhraini (Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Intan Lampung, Indonesia)
Nurnazli Nurnazli (Universitas Islam Negeri Raden Intan Lampung, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 May 2025

Abstract

Background:Numerous indigenous groups in Indonesia, including the Orang Rimba (Suku Anak Dalam) in Jambi Province, experience challenges in asserting their traditional land rights. The expansion of government and private land use frequently triggers conflicts, highlighting a gap between customary practices and formal legal systems. Aims: This research explores the legal protection afforded to the Orang Rimba, with a focus on how their customary laws interact with Indonesia’s national legislation. It also aims to assess whether these indigenous rights receive effective legal acknowledgment and protection. Methods: Using a qualitative descriptive method, the study applies normative legal analysis and incorporates field-based case observations. Data were obtained through the examination of relevant legal documents, statutory regulations, and localized field insights from affected communities. Result: Results indicate that although Indonesia recognizes indigenous law in principle, its application remains inconsistent. The Orang Rimba often find their land rights excluded from formal legal decisions, resulting in continuous marginalization. State-centric legal mechanisms still dominate, with little room for the integration of customary systems. Conclusion: This case reflects a critical need for reinforcing indigenous legal recognition in Indonesia. Integrating customary law into the broader legal structure is vital to ensuring justice and safeguarding the rights of traditional communities facing land tenure insecurity.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

rolsj

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Rule of Law Studies [e-ISSN: 3109-3450] is a peer-reviewed scientific journal dedicated to publishing original research articles, literature reviews, and conceptual papers in the field of law and public policy. The scope of the journal includes studies on the principles of the rule of law, the ...