Strengthening Character Through the Bikarang Tradition: A Socio-cultural Study of Civic Education

Abstract

The bikarang tradition contains citizenship values that are relevant to character development in the context of Civic Education. However, studies examining this tradition from a sociocultural citizenship perspective remain limited. This study aims to analyze the character values within the bikarang tradition and their implications for Civic Education. Qualitative research using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The bikarang tradition fosters three character values: environmental stewardship, mutual cooperation, and self-reliance. These values are reflected in environmentally responsible fishing practices, collective participation, and the management of local resources. The findings indicate that the bikarang tradition reinforces ecological responsibility and collective citizenship and remains relevant in the digital age. This study demonstrates that local traditions can serve as a meaningful learning resource for strengthening sociocultural citizenship and character development. Further research is needed to examine how local traditions are integrated into Civic Education in various cultural contexts.