Tudang Sipulung: A Local Wisdom-Based Land Dispute Resolution Mechanism for Sustainable Development

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15294/ijel.v5i1.29015

Keywords:

Land Disputes, Legal Pluralism, Local Wisdom, Sustainable Development, Tudang Sipulung

Abstract

This research explores the relevance of tudang sipulung to the principles of sustainable development and its effectiveness as a mechanism for resolving land disputes, informed by the community's local wisdom. This research employs socio-legal methods, including statutory, conceptual, and case study approaches. The findings of this study indicate that tudang sipulung can facilitate the peaceful and equitable reconciliation of the parties in accordance with the principles of sipakatau, sipakalebbi, and sipakainge. This mechanism has not only resolved disputes technically but also restored social cohesion and prevented the escalation of violence, thereby contributing to a more harmonious community and supporting the overall goals of sustainable development. Within the framework of the SDGs, tudang sipulung aligns with Goal 16 through its integration of the dimensions of peace, justice, and accountable institutions. Normatively, this mechanism has a solid legal foundation within the national legal pluralism system. The novelty of this research lies in three aspects: positioning tudang sipulung as a preventive and participatory instrument, integrating the sustainable development paradigm as a normative framework, and offering an institutionalization model within Indonesia's formal land law system. The research recommends the issuance of technical regulations that integrate tudang sipulung into the BPN mediation system, the appointment of customary leaders as certified mediators, and the recognition of customary deliberation agreements as legally binding peace agreements—strategic steps to realise a fair, inclusive, and responsive legal system for the cultural diversity of the nation.

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2026-06-30

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29015

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Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): January-Juny, 2026

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