A Comparative Study of Legal Awareness and Inheritance Practices Among the Muslim Chinese Community in Surakarta

Background: Indonesia’s legal landscape is shaped by a blend of diverse cultural traditions and legal systems. The Muslim Chinese community in Surakarta, in particular, follows a unique inheritance process influenced by both Islamic law and Chinese customary practices. Despite this, there is limited research examining their legal awareness and the specific challenges they face in inheritance matters. Aims: This research aims to investigate the level of legal awareness among the Muslim Chinese community in Surakarta regarding inheritance distribution. Additionally, the study explores how inheritance disputes are resolved within this community, considering the interplay between Islamic law, Chinese customary law, and the formal legal system in Indonesia. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive research methodology was employed to gather data through interviews with community members, including male and female heirs, religious figures, and legal professionals. Case studies of inheritance disputes and their resolutions were also analyzed to provide practical insights into the community’s approach to legal matters. Results: The study revealed that the Muslim Chinese community in Surakarta is relatively knowledgeable about Islamic inheritance laws. However, traditional Chinese inheritance practices continue to have a strong influence. Inheritance conflicts, especially over the distribution between male and female heirs, are often resolved informally through family discussions or religious mediation, with little recourse to formal legal processes. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the complexity of inheritance systems within a multicultural context. The Muslim Chinese community in Surakarta navigates a balance between traditional practices and the formal legal framework. Further studies are needed to understand how customary inheritance laws can be integrated with formal legal structures.