Becoming Malay: Cultural Integration of Indian Muslims to Malay Culture in North Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

The cultural integration of Indian Muslims in Indonesia has been developing for an extended period and is proven by the cultural openness to accepting Malay identity. However, there is a significant scarcity of academic discussions specifically exploring this concept. Therefore, this research aimed to explore the combination process and different expressions of openness in Indian Muslim culture into Malay culture in North Sumatra. A total of three perspectives were examined, which included 1) the driving factors behind the formation of cultural integration in North Sumatra, 2) the type of cultural openness used by Indian Muslims, and 3) the pattern of combination in Malay culture. The method used was qualitative descriptive, and data were collected through in-depth interviews with Indian Muslim informants. Consequently, the results showed that Indian culture was highly friendly to understanding the local culture, advancing the integration process. Based on the extent of integration, it could be categorized into two types namely, semi-integration and total integration of Malay culture. Finally, the discovery served as a valuable agenda for preserving the different cultural heritage of the nation, promoting a sample for a balanced multicultural society.