Natural Resource Management and Ecological Sustainability Based on Local Wisdom in the Aceh Besar Society

Abstract

Aceh is one of the provinces with the most extensive forest coverage in Sumatra; however, the forests of Aceh Besar are currently under serious threat from illegal logging, land conversion, and the weakening role of customary institutions in forest governance. This study employs a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, where data were collected through observation and in-depth interviews with informants selected through purposive sampling, including government officials, customary leaders, customary law experts, and community members. The findings reveal that the implementation of wisdom-based forest management through the Panglima Uteun institution has not been carried out sustainably due to limited government support, declining awareness among younger generations regarding customary values, and weak inter-institutional coordination. More than 60 percent of young people in Aceh Besar do not recognize the Panglima Uteun and the Adat Peulara Uteun tradition. This study recommends strengthening binding regulations, fostering collaboration between the Panglima Uteun and forestry authorities, and internalizing local wisdom values as concrete measures to preserve forests and ensure ecological sustainability in Aceh Besar.