Ideal Leadership in the Tunjuk Ajar Melayu of Riau

Abstract

This study explores the concept of leadership within the Tunjuk Ajar Melayu of Riau, a cultural heritage that encompasses advice, counsel, and noble values to guide the lives of the Malay community. Tunjuk Ajar Melayu emphasizes the importance of leadership based on syara' law, or Islamic law. Leaders are selected based on strict criteria, including the qualities of shiddiq (truthfulness), amanah (trustworthiness), fatonah (intelligence), and tabligh (communication), with the aim of establishing order and welfare within society. This research adopts an ethnographic approach, involving six experts on Riau Malay culture as respondents. Data were analyzed using Nvivo software to understand perspectives on leadership in the context of Malay customs and traditions. The findings reveal that leadership in Tunjuk Ajar Melayu emphasizes resilience, patience, and dedication, yet its application in both government and private institutions is increasingly rare. This study recommends stronger efforts to integrate the values of Tunjuk Ajar Melayu into local regulations and policies, in order to maintain the relevance of traditional values in the modern context.