INTEGRATING LOCAL WISDOM INTO SOCIAL STUDIES TO ENHANCE STUDENTS CHARACTER IN DIGITAL ERA
This study aims to analyze the integration of local wisdom into social studies education to enhance junior high school students' character in the digital era, focusing on the cultural context of the Kei Islands in Southeast Maluku Regency, Maluku Province. Rapid digital transformation and intensive exposure to global cultures through digital media have potentially weakened traditional values and local identity among youth in remote archipelago regions. This research utilized a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytic design. Data were collected through deep interviews, field observations, and documentation analysis at vocational and secondary schools in Southeast Maluku. The collected data were analyzed using thematic interactive analysis. The findings indicate that integrating the local wisdom of the Kei people specifically the philosophical values of the Larvul Ngabal customary law, which emphasizes mutual respect, justice, and social harmonyinto digital-based social studies learning materials effectively strengthens student character. This integration successfully promotes social responsibility, local cultural identity, and digital ethics among students. The learning materials are delivered through interactive digital modules, educational videos, and localized project-based learning, ensuring the content is highly engaging for digital native students in the archipelago. In conclusion, combining the local values of the Kei islands with digital pedagogy provides a strategic framework for creating global citizens who are technologically competent yet remain deeply rooted in their cultural identity. This model offers a sustainable blueprint for character education in culturally rich maritime regions.