Penguatan Nilai Hukum Adat Dan Budaya Lokal Sebagai Upaya Pencegahan Konflik Sosial Di Masyarakat Perkotaan

Abstract

Urban communities are characterized by heterogeneity and dynamic social interactions, which may increase the potential for social conflict when they are not supported by values that strengthen social cohesion. Customary law and local culture contain important values, including deliberation, tolerance, mutual cooperation, respect for diversity, and peaceful dispute resolution. This community service activity aimed to improve the understanding of the administrators and members of the Bengkulu City Arts Council regarding the role of customary law and local culture in preventing social conflict and to encourage the integration of these values into arts programs. The activity was conducted from January 1 to 30, 2026, at the Secretariat Office of the Bengkulu City Arts Council. It employed educational, participatory, and contextual approaches through needs identification, material preparation, socialization, interactive discussions, collective reflection, evaluation, and follow-up planning. The activity was evaluated qualitatively through observation, direct questioning, reflective discussions, and participant feedback. The results indicated an improvement in participants’ understanding of customary law as an instrument of social control and conflict prevention. Participants also recognized that the arts do not merely serve as entertainment but can be employed as a medium for legal and social education. The activity generated initial ideas for thematic art performances, cultural dialogues, workshops, youth involvement, and the use of digital media. In addition, the partner demonstrated an initial commitment to integrating customary law and local cultural values into sustainable arts programs. Program sustainability requires continued assistance, measurable evaluation, policy support, and collaboration among relevant institutions.