Journal of Southern Sociological Studies
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): Southern Perspectives in Contemporary Sociology

Sustainable Development: Case Study of Customary Law and Land Acquisition Rejection in Kekeran Village

Ni Made Ayu Nindya Damayanti (Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya)
Moh. Mudzakkir (Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya)
Putri Dwi Permata Indah (Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya)
Sugeng Harianto (Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Jul 2026

Abstract

Kekeran Village maintains a robust customary policy to protect its living space, specifically through the traditional prohibition of selling agricultural land to external parties. This study aims to analyze the strategies of the Kekeran indigenous community in navigating land acquisition pressures from investors and preserving their agrarian sovereignty. Utilizing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were gathered through participatory observation, documentary studies of awig-awig regulations, and in-depth interviews with customary leaders. Max Weber’s social action theory is applied to examine the motives underlying community resistance. The results indicate that the rejection of land acquisition is an integration of value-rational and traditional actions, where land is perceived as a spiritual identity transcending economic commodity value. Collective strategies identified include strengthening social bonds, tightening customary sanctions, and synchronizing local rules with government regulations. In conclusion, local sovereignty supported by adherence to customary law is the primary key to achieving inclusive sustainable development. The synergy between technocratic policies and local wisdom effectively minimizes land conversion for the welfare of future generations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jsss

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities Social Sciences

Description

The journal is dedicated to sociological knowledge by publishing original research articles and critical review essays that address a wide range of social issues. These issues may arise from southern country, such us Asian, African, or other countries. We welcome both theoretical and empirical ...