EXPLORATION OF THE ETHNOMATHEMATICS OF MAGGALE AND MAJJEKKA AS CULTURAL HERITAGE OF TRADITIONAL BUGIS GAMES

This study explores the mathematical concepts and cultural values embedded in the traditional games maggale and majjekka, which are still preserved by the Bugis community. It aims to understand how these games integrate mathematical principles such as geometry, basic physics, and probability with cultural values, including solidarity, creativity, and tradition preservation. Using a qualitative approach with an ethnographic design, this research provides an in-depth analysis of the cultural phenomena under study. Data collection was conducted through direct observation, in-depth interviews with players, community leaders, and game equipment makers, as well as visual documentation in photos and videos. The techniques employed include participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and visual documentation. The collected data were analyzed descriptively and thematically to identify and interpret the mathematical concepts and cultural values embedded in these games. To ensure validity, source triangulation, member checking, and thick description were used to maintain consistency and reliability. The findings reveal that these games incorporate mathematical concepts such as surface area, volume, ratio, similarity, probability, and the relationship between distance, speed, and time. Additionally, they reflect the cultural values of the Bugis community, such as solidarity, creativity, and the preservation of traditions. These results highlight that traditional games serve not only as entertainment but also as contextual learning tools aligned with the educational curriculum and as a medium for cultural preservation. To ensure sustainability, maggale and majjekka should be integrated into formal education, cultural events, and digital documentation. This research significantly contributes to ethnomathematics-based mathematics education and local cultural preservation.