Strict Ancestral Laws Keep Baduy Settlements Exceptionally Crime-Free

RRI.CO.ID, Lebak - The threat of permanent social expulsion and a deep-rooted commitment to ancestral mandates guide the Baduy community in Lebak Regency, Banten Province. These strict principles have rendered their settlements in the Banten hinterlands a rare sanctuary of zero crime.

Modern society often struggles with rising delinquency. In contrast, the 16,000 residents of Kanekes Village uphold a lifestyle that has kept their 68 settlements entirely free from drugs, theft, and violence.

As reported by Antara, Jaro Oom, the customary elder and Head of Kanekes Village, emphasized that this peace is not accidental, but a result of strict adherence to the teachings of their forefathers. 

"To this day, none of our Outer or Inner Baduy residents have been involved in criminal activities, because it is forbidden by our ancestors," he remarked when contacted in Rangkasbitung on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

The social fabric of the Baduy people is maintained through a combination of daily harmony and a high-stakes legal system. Actions that harm others are strictly prohibited, and those who violate these sacred customary laws face severe consequences. 

"We until now live in total peace, harmony, and prosperity. Any action that harms others, like committing a crime, is forbidden and the customary law sanctions are quite heavy," explained Oom. 

He noted that the ultimate penalty for criminal behavior is the "fatal" removal of an individual from the customary community.

Beyond the fear of punishment, the elders actively manage social influences to prevent potential conflict. Jaro Oom noted that he frequently uses customary gatherings to warn residents about unrestrained social interactions with the outside world. 

He cited examples where loud entertainment or excessive public dancing, such as jaipong or dangdut, could act as a catalyst for disturbances or criminal intent. "We want to live peacefully, harmoniously, and prosperously by not violating customary traditions or state laws," he added.

This zero-crime status has earned significant praise from regional law enforcement. The Head of Lebak Resort Police, Adj. Sr. Com Herfio Zaki, expressed his admiration for the community's ability to remain free from narcotics, alcohol, and other social ills. 

He attributed this success to the enduring strength of their indigenous governance. "We frequently visit the Baduy settlements to maintain our relationship and to ensure continued public security and order," remarked Herfio.

The Baduy community, which sustains itself through subsistence farming and traditional handicrafts, remains a model of self-regulation. By prioritizing ancestral wisdom over modern social pressures, they have managed to maintain a society where crime is virtually non-existent. 

"To date, no member of the Baduy tribe has committed a crime. It contradicts our customs, and the sanctions are severe and fatal to one's status, potentially leading to expulsion from the community," concluded Oom. ***