The struggle of indigenous people: An overview recognition of customary forest in Minangkabau, Indonesia

Abstract

Customary forest and state forest are still a dichotomy contested by indigenous peoples and the state. The forests around Singkarak Lake, West Sumatra are managed in different ways which are related to the capacity of indigenous communities around the forest. The indigenous Minangkabau people of Nagari Malalo Tigo Jurai have local wisdom for the management of customary forests, but the recognition of their customary forest is beginning to be disturbed by the new recognition of this forest as state forest. This study examines the communal efforts carried out by the indigenous peoples in recognizing the customary forest management rights in Nagari Malalo Tigo Jurai customary forest. This study using a qualitative approach with in-depth interview techniques, observation and literature study. This research shows that there have some local wisdom practiced for forest management in the customary forest area for many years. Lately, there is a strong communal movement of the indigenous peoples for recognition of their customary forest areas.