Feudalism in an Egalitarian Land

The practice of bestowing traditional Minangkabau 'adat' titles upon government officials and individuals outside the community is examined, questioning its place in an ostensibly egalitarian society. A notable instance cited is President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono receiving a Minangkabau adat title in 2006, conferred by the Lembaga Kerapatan Adat Alam Minangkabau (LKAAM), an institution with historical ties to the military and the ruling Golkar party during the New Order era.

This tradition of granting adat titles to non-Minangkabau individuals is not new. In the 1950s, there was a plan to award the Bundo Kanduang title to First Lady Fatmawati. However, this was reportedly halted after A.A. Navis convinced military officials that the title originated from a mythical figure in the 'Kaba Cindua Mato' epic, involving an extraordinary conception that might not be suitable for a modern First Lady.

Minangkabau adat organizations have a history of awarding titles to various public figures, including Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Taufik Kiemas, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, Surya Paloh, and Anwar Nasution. The article probes the significance these titles hold for Indonesian officials and entrepreneurs.

For Minangkabau men, adat titles are considered a natural part of life, as indicated by the proverb "ketek banamo, gadang bagala" (small named, big titled). Upon marriage, men receive an adat title, signifying their transition to adulthood and granting them a voice in community deliberations. These titles are considered communal heritage, not personal property, and must be returned to the 'kaum' (clan) upon the holder's death. Consequently, every adult Minangkabau man is expected to possess a title, making it less of a unique distinction within their own society. The author suggests that the true value of an adat title lies in the holder's ability to fulfill the responsibilities it entails, rather than the title itself.