Journal of Adat Recht
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): MAY - JOAR

Customary Law and Agrarian Conflict:Analysis of Land Dispute Resolution Based on Local Wisdom

Basri Basri (Universitas Borneo Tarakan)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

Agrarian conflict is a recurring structural problem in Indonesia, particularly in areas inhabited by indigenous communities. The tension between state law and customary law is often the primary source of protracted land disputes. This study analyzes how land dispute resolution mechanisms based on local wisdom, derived from customary law, can function effectively as an alternative or complement to the formal justice system. Using normative legal research methods supported by sociological and historical approaches, this study examines various customary law instruments, jurisprudence, and field studies on land dispute resolution practices in indigenous communities across Indonesia. The results indicate that customary deliberation mechanisms, customary elder institutions, and communal consensus values ​​embodied in local wisdom are highly effective in achieving just and sustainable dispute resolution. However, the weak legal recognition of customary institutions and decisions is a major obstacle to their implementation. This study recommends strengthening the national legal framework that integrates customary mechanisms into the agrarian dispute resolution system, accompanied by empowerment of local customary institutions.  

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JOAR

Publisher

Subject

Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Journal of Adat Recht is a journal with the theme of Legal Science, with benefits and objectives for the development of Legal Science, by prioritising the originality, specificity and recency of articles in each issue. The purpose of the publication of this Journal is to provide space to publish ...