Migrant communities in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, have been found to adapt successfully through the application of Bugis cultural values such as Sipakatau, Sipakalebbi, and Sipakainge. The findings were revealed in a study conducted by Andi Muh. Rusdi Maidin, Andi Tenri Ulmi Qalsum, Rajamemang, Wahyudi Putera, and Nisma Iriani. The research was published in the April 2026 edition of the Contemporary Journal of Applied Sciences (CJAS).
The study examined how migrant communities socially adapt and build relationships with local residents in Bone Regency. Researchers found that the adaptation process occurs through three major stages: functional adaptation, cultural acculturation, and social integration.
Bone Regency has experienced significant population growth in recent years. Besides natural population increases, the growth has also been driven by migrants arriving from Java, Makassar, and other Bugis regions. Bone is considered attractive because of its economic development, trade activities, and its role as a central hub in the Bosowasipilu region of South Sulawesi.
According to the study, the arrival of migrant communities has intensified intercultural interactions between newcomers and local residents. In Bone society, cultural values known as Pangadereng play a central role in maintaining social harmony. Embedded within these values is the concept of Siri’ na Pesse, which emphasizes dignity, solidarity, and social empathy.
Researchers explained that migrants who understand and practice the principles of Sipakatau (humanizing others), Sipakalebbi (mutual respect), and Sipakainge (mutual reminders and guidance) tend to be accepted more quickly by the local Bone community.
The study used a qualitative method with a descriptive phenomenological approach. Data was collected through direct observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation over a three-month period in Tanete Riattang District, the center of Watampone City. Informants included migrants, community leaders, traditional leaders, and native Bone residents.
The research identified several important factors that accelerate social adaptation among migrants:
The use of polite expressions such as “Tabe’” and “Iye’” serves as an important symbol of respect in social interactions in Bone.
Participation in traditional ceremonies such as Mappacci and community social activities helps migrants build emotional connections with local residents.
Social solidarity, known as Pesse, allows migrants who show empathy during difficult situations to be accepted more quickly as part of the local community.
However, the study also identified several adaptation challenges. Differences in language and the distinctive Bugis Bone dialect were among the main initial obstacles for newcomers. Some informants admitted they initially felt uncomfortable with the direct communication style of local residents. Over time, they realized that the directness reflected openness rather than hostility.
The research also highlighted the important role of public spaces such as traditional markets and mosques as social meeting points where cultural exchange and social adjustment occur naturally through daily interactions.
According to Andi Muh. Rusdi Maidin and the research team, successful social integration in Bone occurs because local communities maintain openness toward diversity while preserving their cultural identity. Migrants also tend to adopt elements of local culture without abandoning their original identities.
The researchers recommended that local governments organize more cultural festivals and interethnic dialogue forums to strengthen social integration in Bone Regency. They also emphasized the importance of preserving local cultural values for younger generations amid social change and globalization.
The study is considered important because it demonstrates how local cultural values can serve as a strong foundation for maintaining social harmony amid increasing migration and diversity in Indonesia.
Author Profiles
- Andi Muh. Rusdi Maidin - Bosowa University
- Andi Tenri Ulmi Qalsum - Bosowa University
- Rajamemang - Muhammadiyah University of Sinjai
- Wahyudi Putera - STIE Pelita Buana and State Polytechnic of Ujung Pandang
- Nisma Iriani University of Eastern Indonesia
Research Source
Maidin, Andi Muh. Rusdi, Qalsum, Andi Tenri Ulmi, Rajamemang, Putera, Wahyudi, & Iriani, Nisma. Social Adaptation of the Community to Local Residents in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi Province. Contemporary Journal of Applied Sciences (CJAS), Vol. 4 No. 5, April 2026, pp. 439–448.
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