Adat derives in part from the ancient animist and Hindu belief system of the Minangkabau, which existed before the arrival of Islam to Sumatra.

Join Herstory for Mother's Day, this Sunday, for a fascinating conversation with Saraz Sapio, an inspirational young woman from the Minangkabau tribe in Sumatra, Indonesia.

Adat, the Nature Based Philosophy The key to Minangkabau matriarchy, according to Dr. Sanday, is found in the ever-present adat idea expressed in the proverb "growth in nature must be a teacher." ...

The Minangkabau are an anthropological wonder. The world’s largest matrilineal society with a population the size of Los Angeles, its people sprawl through West Sumatra province in Indonesia.

Minang women value their significant role in social and public life, especially during adat ceremonies and festivals when they sing and dance.

Apart from the unique architecture, the clothes are also an important aspect of the Minangkabau, who make up the majority ethnic group in Negri Sembilan.

In Minangkabau society, I was told, “rape doesn’t exist, because our adat, our local custom, doesn’t allow it.” Men who assault women are shunned and even driven from their villages.

The Minangkabau customary principle is reflected in the statement 'Adat Basandi Syarak, Syarak Basandi Kitabullah' meaning that Minangkabau principles and customs are based on Shariah (Islamic law ...