CUSTOMARY INSTITUTIONS AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION (THE ROLE OF LOCAL WISDOM IN BUILDING PEACE IN ACEH)

This study reviews the role of customary institutions in conflict resolution in Aceh, Indonesia. The main argument and the urgency of this research is that the customary institutions as a part of local wisdom can be used as a mean of eliminating conflicts and building peace in the Aceh society. The traditional authorities here constitute keuchik, tuhapeut, imum village / meunasah, and Mukimleader. Local wisdom is packed of religious values which becomes a way of life of the Acehnese. This tradition is considered quite democratic, elastic, fast, inexpensive and without bloodshed and rancor between the two sides involved in the conflict, either vertically or horizontally. This research was conducted in the city of Lhokseumawe using a qualitative approach. The data collection method used is in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and document research. The results showed that the customary institutions have a significant role in the Aceh conflict resolution and peace building. The traditional authorities arekeuchik, tuhapeut, imummeunasah and other public figures. Conflicts or disputes can be resolved, some of which are fighting between residents, divorce, petty theft and disputes on land boundaries.