Reconstructing Gender Roles in Contemporary Muslim Families: Wives as Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers from a <i>Mubādalah</i> Perspective

Purpose – This study aims to analyze the role of wives as online motorcycle taxi drivers while helping to meet family needs. The shift in the role of breadwinner can lead to improved marital relationships and cooperation, but it can also sacrifice women due to gender inequality. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is needed to view contemporary family phenomena through the principles of justice and equality (Mubādalah). Methods – Field research was conducted in this study to provide a comprehensive and contextual overview. A socio-legal approach was used in this study to examine the norms of breadwinners and the social reality of wives who work as online motorcycle taxi drivers. Data was collected through interviews with five informants in Metro City and analyzed using contemporary family law theory, namely the Mubādalah theory. Findings – The findings of this study indicate that the obligation to earn a living is a form of protection for the family, and the role of wives as online motorcycle taxi drivers is part of modern society's efforts to achieve reciprocity and gender equality in family life. Working as an online ride-hailing driver is a form of loyalty and dedication from the wife to her husband in helping to achieve a harmonious family life and reduce the family's economic burden. However, the primary responsibility for providing for the family remains the husband's duty, and the wife's role is to assist the husband, as part of a mutually beneficial relationship that brings goodness. The research limitations - The small sample size is a limitation of this study, but despite this, it provides a comprehensive conceptual framework for addressing the challenges faced by contemporary families. Originality and Contribution – This study provides new insights into husband-wife relationships. It contributes to a comprehensive conceptual framework for addressing contemporary family challenges.