Finding local wisdoms in indigenous tradition of marriage in Simeulue Island

This paper examines the traditional marriage process practiced by the people of Simeulue Island, Aceh Province, Indonesia, with a focus on the sequence of customary rituals and the symbolic meanings of wedding ornaments. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews with community elders and cultural practitioners, as well as documentation of local traditions. The findings reveal that the traditional marriage ceremony consists of four main stages: Manutuk Anak Ammen, Lak o si Falu-falu, Manaek en Tando, and Baralek. Each stage embodies specific social and moral values, including politeness, respect for customary law, consensus-building, and communal cooperation. In particular, the Baralek stage is characterized by symbolic ornaments such as the wedding stage and bridal seats, which represent the aesthetic and spiritual ideals of the Simeulue community. Overall, the traditional marriage process reflects local wisdom that promotes harmony, cooperation, and social cohesion, highlighting its significance as an important cultural heritage that should be preserved in the face of socio-cultural change.