Revitalizing Customary Law: Reforming Buffalo Farming Practices (Jalangan) in Menaming Village for Sustainable Governance

The buffalo farming system in Menaming Village is deeply rooted in traditional practices, combining grazing and caging methods that reflect the community's cultural values and environmental stewardship. These practices, designed to minimize the exploitation of natural resources, position Rokan Hulu as a region with significant potential to support both local livelihoods and national economic development. The research emphasizes the role of customary law, recognized in Indonesia's Constitution, in upholding these traditional practices and fostering sustainable livestock management. This study highlights the integration of local wisdom into buffalo farming, including practices such as converting manure into organic fertilizer, utilizing organic materials for fuel, adopting pesticide-free animal feed, and implementing rotational grazing systems. These strategies reduce environmental degradation, maintain ecological balance, and enhance livestock health and productivity. Moreover, they generate economic benefits, create employment opportunities, improve farmers’ incomes, and strengthen social cohesion through community-based activities and mutual cooperation. The novelty of this research lies in its demonstration of how customary law can be revitalized and integrated into contemporary governance frameworks to address modern challenges in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. This study contributes to the discourse on law reform by proposing that customary law be formally recognized and adapted within Indonesia's legal system as a dynamic tool for promoting sustainable development, empowering local communities, and preserving cultural heritage.