Customary environmental law and its transformation models in Indonesia

The development of modern environmental law in Indonesia has not led to significant improvements in environmental quality. A key challenge is the limited public understanding of environmental law, compounded by the predominance of traditional, religious, and mystical perspectives within Indonesian society. This study aims to investigate the existence and role of customary environmental law in Indonesia and assess its potential contribution to the national environmental legal framework. A qualitative approach was employed, involving document analysis and field observations in communities known for strong adherence to customary practices. Data were analyzed to identify principles and practices of environmental management rooted in local customs. The findings reveal that customary environmental law exists and regulates both the utilization and conservation of the environment according to indigenous norms. This legal tradition operates beyond the realm of local wisdom, suggesting the emergence of a distinct subsystem within Indonesia’s environmental law. Customary environmental law offers valuable insights for the formulation and revision of national environmental legislation. Integrating these customary principles could enhance the effectiveness and cultural relevance of Indonesia’s environmental governance.