Revitalizing Surau Suku for Strengthening Religious Identity and Socio-Economic Empowerment among Minangkabau Youth

Abstract

This study examines the declining function of surau suku in Sijunjung Regency and proposes a revitalization framework integrating hybrid religiosity, social capital, and Islamic social finance. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through focused observations of 12 surau suku, semi-structured interviews with surau administrators, religious leaders, ninik mamak (customary elders), youth, and community members, as well as document analysis. Data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing with source and method triangulation. The findings indicate a gap between the physical presence of surau and their socio-religious functions. Youth participation remains limited, with average attendance of 6.8% outside Ramadan and 19.2% during Ramadan. Youth engagement is more visible in religious celebrations, competitions, and communal activities than in regular religious learning. Digital media has become a significant source of religious knowledge, although its use by surau administrators remains limited to information dissemination. Based on these findings, this study proposes a four-stage revitalization framework involving community diagnosis, hybrid religious programs, social capital-based governance, and productive Islamic social finance. The study contributes by positioning surau suku as an adaptive socio-religious institution connecting local religious identity, digital practices, community networks, and productive social assets