<![CDATA[Boundary disputes remain a persistent challenge in local governance, particularly where administrative boundaries intersect with historical claims, economic interests, and customary legitimacy. This study investigates the historical development, underlying causes, and resolution of the boundary dispute between Gampong Suak Raya and Gampong Lapang in Johan Pahlawan District, West Aceh Regency, during 1999–2024. Employing a qualitative historical approach, the research applies heuristics, source criticism, interpretation, and historiography. Data were collected through interviews, documentary analysis, observation, and literature review, with triangulation employed to enhance credibility. The findings reveal that competing historical land claims, changing land-use patterns, and increasing economic interests intensified territorial tensions. The 2004 tsunami and unclear administrative boundaries further complicated the dispute. Government mediation culminated in the formal determination of administrative boundaries in 2017, although differences in community perceptions regarding historical and customary legitimacy persisted. The study concludes that village boundary disputes constitute historically embedded sociopolitical processes rather than exclusively administrative disagreements. Sustainable conflict resolution therefore requires an integrated approach combining legal certainty, historical documentation, participatory mapping, institutional coordination, and meaningful community engagement.]]>
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