Amid Indonesia's rich cultural diversity, every ethnic group has its own way of addressing family members. One of the most fascinating examples is the term used for "uncle" in the Minangkabau culture. Unlike other regions that use words like "paman," "pakde," or "oom," the Minangkabau people refer to an uncle as "mamak."
The word mamak in Minangkabau is not just a simple term of address—it carries deep social and structural significance. It refers specifically to the mother's brother, who holds an important role in both the family and the clan, according to Minangkabau’s matrilineal tradition.
Writer Akbar Pitopang shares his personal experience of becoming a mamak to his nieces and nephews. As the oldest of three brothers, he and his two younger siblings are all called by different titles by their nieces and nephews, despite all being uncles.
Akbar is referred to as "Mak Dang," which stands for Mamak Gadang or the eldest uncle. His middle brother is called "Mak Ngah" (Mamak Tangah), and the youngest is known as "Mak Etek" (Mamak Ketek), meaning the youngest uncle.
This distinction reveals how detailed and respectful the Minangkabau culture is regarding family structure. Each mamak has a unique role and level of respect depending on their birth order and responsibilities within the family.
In Minangkabau society, a mamak is not just an uncle in the casual sense. He also carries social and customary responsibilities toward his nieces and nephews, both within the family and the larger clan. A mamak serves as a caretaker, protector, and guide throughout their lives.
Interestingly, these titles are still commonly used today in many Minangkabau families. Even with modernization and globalization, the tradition remains strong, as seen in Akbar’s own extended family.
This is in contrast to other regions in Indonesia where local terms have started to fade, replaced by more modern or Western terms like “oom” or “uncle.” The Minangkabau, however, maintain their cultural identity with pride through such titles.
The author also criticizes some Minangkabau families who feel ashamed to use the term mamak and instead prefer foreign terms like “oom,” seeing them as more prestigious. This, he argues, is a rejection of their cultural roots and traditional values.
This shift highlights a broader identity struggle in some urban Minangkabau communities, influenced by modern lifestyles or a desire to appear more "elite."
Still, many traditional Minangkabau communities continue to uphold these customs. For them, the word mamak is not just a label—it represents duty, heritage, and deep familial ties.
Interestingly, the word mamak also exists in other cultures, such as in Malaysia, particularly among the Tamil Muslim community. In Tamil, maama means maternal uncle, and the term is used as an honorific in social interactions.
The Mamak community in Malaysia is of Indian Muslim descent, mainly from Tamil Nadu. While the word carries a similar familial meaning, its usage has evolved within Malaysian society, sometimes even taking on derogatory undertones in certain contexts.
However, unlike in Malaysia, the Minangkabau interpretation of mamak is rooted in honor, leadership, and responsibility. Titles like Mak Dang, Mak Ngah, and Mak Etek highlight the cultural depth and familial structure that is carefully preserved.
This tradition teaches children from a young age about respect, family roles, and social responsibilities. The way they call their uncles shapes their understanding of hierarchy and kinship.
In the bigger picture, the figure of the mamak in Minangkabau is a clear example of how local culture in Indonesia is rich with meaning. Each word and title carries a story, a role, and a set of values passed down through generations.
If we wish to preserve the richness of Indonesia’s culture, maintaining traditional terms like mamak is crucial. It’s more than a word—it’s a cultural identity, a moral compass, and a familial bond.
From a simple story about how one calls their uncle, we uncover profound lessons on kinship, tradition, and the beauty of cultural heritage that continues to thrive in the Minangkabau community.