Local wisdom as the main pillar of disaster risk management in indigenous communities: A forensic linguistics perspective

¹ Faculty of Humanities, Universitas Andalas, Padang 25163, West Sumatra, Indonesia
² Indonesian Language Education, Universitas PGRI Mahadewa, Denpasar 80235, Bali, Indonesia
³ Sharia Economic Law, STITNU Sakinah Dharmasraya, Dharmasraya, West Sumatra, Indonesia
⁴ School of Languages, Civilization, and Philosophy, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok 06010, Kedah, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: nidya.fitri@hum.unand.ac.id

Abstract

This study explores the integration of local wisdom into disaster risk reduction (DRR) through a forensic linguistic lens, focusing on how traditional expressions, oral traditions, and symbolic language operate as communicative instruments in disaster preparedness. Employing a qualitative descriptive method with a literature-based approach, the research draws on studies published between 2016 and 2023. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify linguistic indicators of cultural values and their roles in disaster management. The findings demonstrate that elements of local wisdom such as taboos, proverbs, ritual language, and social values like gotong royong play a vital role in shaping community resilience before, during, and after disasters. From a forensic linguistic perspective, these linguistic forms serve as cultural evidence that guides social behavior and reinforces collective awareness of environmental hazards. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of integrating indigenous communication systems with scientific DRR frameworks to create culturally grounded and effective strategies. The study concludes that disaster management programs become more sustainable when local wisdom is formally acknowledged and institutionalized. It is recommended that policymakers, educators, and disaster management institutions collaborate with local communities to safeguard and adapt traditional linguistic knowledge for resilience, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.