Riau Malay Customary Institution (LAMR) Bengkalis

Philosophy and Strategic Role in Regional Development

LAMR Bengkalis stands on the philosophical foundation of "Adat Bersendikan Syarak, Syarak Bersendikan Kitabullah" (Customs are based on Islamic Law, Islamic Law is based on the Holy Book). In Bengkalis Regency, this institution functions as a strategic partner to the local government in formulating culturally-informed policies. Its role extends beyond formal ceremonies; LAMR serves as the primary reference for resolving social conflicts through customary approaches (restorative justice) and is the main curator in ensuring that physical development in Bengkalis maintains the aesthetics of Malay architecture.

The presence of the Datuk Laksamana Raja Di Laut Regional Building, which serves as LAMR Bengkalis' headquarters, is a symbol of cultural sovereignty. It is within this place that customary policies are formulated to preserve the dignity of the Malay community, ensuring it remains resilient against the elements.

Preservation of Performing Arts and Oral Literature

One of the main pillars of activities at LAMR Bengkalis is the revitalization of traditional performing arts that are becoming rare. Bengkalis possesses a unique artistic richness due to its geographical location bordering the Strait of Malacca, creating a distinctive cultural blend.

1. Zapin Api and Traditional Zapin: LAMR Bengkalis regularly facilitates the training of Zapin studios. Specifically for Zapin Api, originating from Rupat Utara Village, LAMR plays a role in documentation and protection to ensure this mystical-religious art form remains preserved in its originality as intangible cultural heritage.

2. Bangsawan Theater: In an effort to revive the glory of the Malay stage, LAMR organizes Bangsawan theater training for the younger generation. This program includes vocal training, characteristic movements, and mastering classic scripts rich in moral and heroic messages.

3. Oral Literature (Gurindam and Pantun): LAMR Bengkalis ensures that the tradition of exchanging pantuns remains alive in every customary ceremony, from weddings to welcoming distinguished guests. They periodically hold contests for writing Gurindam Dua Belas and pantun competitions at the regency level to discover young Malay "poet" talents.

Handicrafts and Culture-Based Creative Economy

Within the complex of this cultural center, there is a special space for the development of Bengkalis' distinctive handicrafts. LAMR encourages the empowerment of local artisans through concrete programs:

• Legetan and Pucuk Rebung Weaving: Bengkalis is known for its distinctive selerang weaving motifs. LAMR collaborates with weaving groups to ensure that established motifs are preserved while innovating with natural dyes.
• Pandan Weaving and Tekat Embroidery: The tradition of embroidery with gold thread (tekat), commonly used for wedding decorations and betel boxes, is a focus of training. The aim is to ensure that the needs for customary ceremony tools are met by local artisans, rather than factory-produced items.

Education Programs and Youth Cadre Training

Recognizing that the biggest challenge is regeneration, LAMR Bengkalis has launched the "Sekolah Adat" (Customary School) program. This is not formal education but a series of intensive workshops for students and university attendees. The curriculum includes:

• Malay Attire Etiquette: Educating the community on the differences in using sarongs, types of tanjak (headwear), and baju kurung (traditional Malay attire) according to social strata and event types.
• Customary Protocol: Training youth to become "Adat Guides" or emcees in traditional ceremonies, ensuring Malay politeness values are maintained in every event (feast).
• Jawi Literacy: An effort to restore the ability to read and write in the Arab-Malay script among Generation Z, as a key to unlocking ancient historical texts of Bengkalis.

Cultural Events and Annual Festivals

LAMR Bengkalis is the driving force behind various large-scale cultural festivals. One of the most prominent is the celebration of the Festival Lampu Colok (Candlelight Festival) on the 27th night of Ramadan. Although a community tradition, LAMR provides standardization of aesthetic and philosophical values to the design of the candlelight gates, ensuring they continue to convey Islamic and Malay messages.

In addition, LAMR is active in organizing the Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) from a cultural propagation perspective, as well as the customary ceremony of Tepuk Tepung Tawar (sprinkling rice flour) for newly appointed community leaders or officials, as a form of blessing and customary acceptance in Bengkalis.

Preservation of Intangible Heritage and Historical Documentation

Bengkalis has a long history connected to the Siak Sultanate and the role of Datuk Laksamana Raja Di Laut. LAMR Bengkalis actively conducts research and documentation of historical sites in Bukit Batu and its surroundings. They collect old manuscripts and oral traditions (folklore) to be compiled into books so they are not lost to time.

This effort also includes standardizing the "Bengkalis Malay Wedding Customs." Given the many variations, LAMR strives to formulate a standard that serves as a reference for the general public, ensuring that processes such as merisik (pre-engagement inquiry), meminang (proposal), hantar tanda (sending gifts), to bersanding (wedding ceremony) remain in accordance with the correct customary flow.

Role in Local Cultural Development and Social Harmony

As a heterogeneous region, LAMR Bengkalis also plays the role of "Payung Negeri" (Umbrella of the Land). Although focused on Malay culture, this institution actively communicates with other ethnic associations (Javanese, Chinese, Bugis, Batak, etc.) present in Bengkalis. LAMR positions itself as a mediator and protector, ensuring that "wherever you step, you respect the local customs." Malay culture is positioned as an inclusive core culture, embracing differences to create regional stability.

LAMR is also involved in bestowing customary titles upon figures deemed to have made significant contributions to the progress of Bengkalis Regency. The conferment of these titles is not merely an honor but a mandate to participate in preserving the dignity and honor of the region on a national and international stage.

Challenges and Future Hopes

In the digital era, LAMR Bengkalis has begun to utilize social media platforms to disseminate cultural education content. Short videos on how to fold a tanjak or the meaning behind dishes like bolu kemojo and lempuk durian are effective ways to reach younger audiences.

The hope is that the Riau Malay Customary Institution of Bengkalis Regency will continue to transform into an institution that is modern in management yet traditional in substance. With a strong commitment, LAMR will ensure that the light of Malay civilization in the Strait of Malacca continues to shine, making Bengkalis not only economically advanced but also spiritually rich and culturally authoritative. Through synergy between religious scholars, government officials (umaro), and customary leaders, LAMR Bengkalis remains the last bastion safeguarding noble values in the "Land of the Crowned."