Digital Adat: Local Cultural Practices in Indonesian Online Communities

Authors

  • Irwan Abdullah Universitas Gadjah Mada
  • Intan Permata sari Leiden University, Netherland
  • Yowan Tamu Universitas Negeri Gorontalo
  • Angga Teguh Prasetyo UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62033/iasjol.v3i2.215

Keywords:

digitalisation, cultural identity, local culture, traditional practices, online communities

Abstract

Digitalisation has emerged as a significant phenomenon shaping traditional cultural practices within Indonesian online communities, exerting a significant influence on cultural identity and heritage preservation. Drawing on theoretical frameworks from cultural anthropology and digital sociology, this study examines the hybrid dynamics of cultural adaptation in digital contexts. This study aims to analyse the transformation of local cultural practices within online communities while addressing a gap in the existing literature concerning the comprehensive effects on digitalisation of cultural practices. Employing a literature review methodology, the study analyses a range of academic sources and case studies to identify patterns of cultural representation and transformation within digital spaces. The findings indicate that digitalisation facilitates both the preservation and the commodification of cultural practices, often leading to the simplification of complex rituals, the loss of sacred meanings, and the commercialisation of cultural symbols. The study further identifies three major patterns: cultural commodification, the transformation of cultural contexts for global audiences, and the risk of misrepresentation on digital platforms. It concludes that the careful and reflexive integration of digital technologies into cultural practices is essential to safeguarding authenticity and integrity, thereby ensuring cultural sustainability amid the forces of globalisation.

 

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Submitted

2026-01-06

Published

2026-01-15

How to Cite

Abdullah, I., Sari, I. permata, Tamu, yowan, & Prastyo, A. T. (2026). Digital Adat: Local Cultural Practices in Indonesian Online Communities. IAS Journal of Localities, 3(2), 149–162. https://doi.org/10.62033/iasjol.v3i2.215

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Articles