Strengthening the Culture of Social Bonding Among Adolescents Through the Mbarak Tradition in Nusantara Jaya Village, Riau

Abstract

The culture of silaturahmi constitutes a fundamental value in Islamic teachings that plays an important role in shaping adolescents’ social and religious character. However, amid globalization and the rapid expansion of digital media, the intensity of silaturahmi among adolescents tends to decline. This study aims to identify the Islamic values reflected in the Mbarak tradition, analyze its role in transmitting silaturahmi values and Islamic teachings to adolescents, and examine its function as a medium for strengthening the culture of silaturahmi among adolescents in Nusantara Jaya Village, Riau. This study employs a field research method. Data were collected through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving village officials, religious leaders, Islamic Religious Education teachers, and adolescents. Data analysis utilized an inductive ethnographic approach. The findings indicate that the Mbarak tradition contains strong Islamic values and functions as an effective medium for social habituation, role modeling, and value internalization. It also strengthens adolescents’ social awareness and self-regulation in accordance with Islamic values. The sustainability of this tradition, however, faces challenges from modern and digital cultural influences, making cross-sectoral support essential for its continuity.