Exploring the total peace model of Indonesia's Sundanese indigenous communities: Ethnographic study in Kampung Naga

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Ilfiandra, Eva Imania Eliasa, Muslihati, Nadia Aulia Nadhirah, Ridwan Gofur, M. Arli Rusandi

2026 Social Sciences and Humanities Open Vol. 13 Article Cited by 0

Abstract

Local wisdom in Indonesia has recently emerged as a significant discourse in education, attracting the attention of researchers worldwide. It has a unique appeal for in-depth exploration, particularly in character education. However, positioned at a crossroads due to globalization, the increased focus on local wisdom raises concerns about the potential dilution of its values through internationalization efforts. This study employs an ethnographic design to examine patterns of behavior, beliefs, and traditions that serve as dispositional factors contributing to the peace of the traditional Kampung Naga community in West Java, Indonesia. A case study ethnographic approach enables a comprehensive understanding of individual experiences. The research participants, four purposively selected individuals holding informal leadership roles, contributed insights through focused group discussions, in-depth interviews, and observations. Thematic analysis, guided by the overarching concept of total peace, was used to analyze the data. Findings indicate that the Kampung Naga community's conception of peace reflects a positive sense of tranquility. Feelings of contentment and inner strength reflect a peaceful disposition toward oneself. The belief that “others are also ourselves” and adherence to a middle-path philosophy demonstrate social peace. The community's harmony with nature emerges from their belief that “we are part of nature,” while their sense of peace with the Divine arises from their conviction that a higher power governs all things. The study recommends revitalizing local wisdom to strengthen the cultural foundation for peace pedagogy in educational contexts. © 2026 The Authors.

Affiliations

Department of Guidance and Counseling, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia; Department of Guidance and Counseling, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia; Department of Guidance and Counseling, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia; Department of Guidance and Counseling, Universitas Riau, Pekanbaru, Indonesia