AL JABAR: Jurnal Pendidikan dan Pembelajaran Matematika
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): April

CROSS-CULTURAL ETHNOMATHEMATICS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA: MATHEMATICAL PRACTICES EMBEDDED IN INDONESIAN AND THAI CULTURAL PHENOMENA

Jaka Wijaya Kusuma (Universitas Bina Bangsa)
Hamidah (Universitas Bina Bangsa)
Saran Chantarasri (Suranaree University of Technology Thailand)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study explores cross-cultural ethnomathematical practices embedded in cultural phenomena across Southeast Asia, with a focus on Indonesia and Thailand. The primary objective is to identify and analyze mathematical practices inherent in various cultural aspects, including batik motifs, traditional house architecture, and traditional games in Indonesia, as well as temple architecture, woodcarving, and traditional dance in Thailand. This study employs a case-study approach, with data collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings indicate that mathematical practices such as geometry, proportion, symmetry, and patterns are consistently found in cultural artifacts and activities. The research results indicate that contextual learning incorporating ethnomathematics influences problem-solving abilities based on students’ levels of thinking. Additionally, this study provides insights into the interrelation between cultural values and mathematical symbolism. Cross-cultural analysis revealed common themes and significant differences in the application of mathematics, influenced by historical, religious, and environmental factors. The implications of this research include a deeper understanding of how culture shapes mathematical practices and how ethnomathematics can be integrated into education to enhance culturally relevant mathematics learning and improve students’ numeracy skills

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Al-Jabar

Publisher

Subject

Mathematics

Description

Al Jabar: Jurnal Pendidikan dan Pembelajaran Matematika is an open access and peer-reviewed journal of Mathematics and Mathematics Education published by the Prodi Tadris Matematika STAI Muhammadiyah Probolinggo. This journal is published twice a year (June and December) in both print and online ...