Parenting Patterns in Indonesia and Malaysia: A Comparative Study

RESULT RESEARCH COLLABORATION

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Parenting Patterns in Indonesia and Malaysia: A Comparative Study

Ulfa (UNUGIRI), Hakim (PCI NU Malaysia), Mimin (PCI Muslimat NU Malaysia), Istighosah (UNUGIRI)

Abstract

This research explores and compares the parenting patterns in Indonesia and Malaysia, focusing on their shared religious and cultural foundations while addressing the unique socio-cultural dynamics in each country. Through qualitative and quantitative methods, the study investigates the role of religion, socio-economic status, and cultural values in shaping parenting practices. The findings highlight both similarities, such as the emphasis on Islamic values, and differences, including the influence of ethnic diversity in Malaysia and regional variations in Indonesia. Recommendations are provided to address challenges related to balancing traditional values with modern parenting dynamics.

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Introduction

Parenting is universally recognized as the foundation of child development, but its practices vary widely based on cultural, religious, and socio-economic contexts. In Southeast Asia, Indonesia and Malaysia are two predominantly Muslim nations with distinct yet overlapping parenting traditions.

Objectives

This study aims to:

1. Compare and contrast parenting patterns in Indonesia and Malaysia.
2. Examine the role of religion, culture, and socio-economic factors in shaping parenting practices.
3. Identify challenges and opportunities for adapting parenting styles in the face of modern influences.

Research Questions

1. What are the dominant parenting styles in Indonesia and Malaysia?
2. How do cultural and religious values shape parenting practices in both countries?
3. What challenges do parents face in balancing traditional values with modern expectations?

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Methodology

This research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys.

• Sample: The study involved 200 parents (100 each from Indonesia and Malaysia) with children aged 3–15 years. Participants were selected from urban and rural areas to capture diverse perspectives.
• Data Collection: Semi-structured interviews explored attitudes toward discipline, education, and family roles. Surveys assessed parenting styles using validated scales such as the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ).
• Data Analysis: Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data, while SPSS was employed for statistical analysis of survey results.

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Results and Discussion

1. Similarities in Parenting Patterns

Religious Upbringing
Islam plays a central role in parenting in both Indonesia and Malaysia. Parents in both countries emphasize instilling Islamic values, including honesty, compassion, and respect for elders.

• Daily rituals such as prayers (shalat), Quran recitation, and fasting during Ramadan are integral to family life.1
• Religious schools (madrasah in Indonesia and sekolah agama in Malaysia) complement formal education in fostering moral and spiritual development.2

Family-Centered Approach
The extended family system is prevalent in both countries. Grandparents and other relatives often assist in child-rearing, particularly in rural areas. This collective approach provides children with a strong sense of belonging and support.3

Balanced Discipline
Parents in both countries employ a mix of authoritative and authoritarian approaches, balancing affection with strictness to ensure children adhere to moral and cultural values.^4

2. Differences in Parenting Patterns

Cultural Diversity

• Indonesia: With over 17,000 islands and hundreds of ethnic groups, parenting practices vary significantly. For example, Javanese parents often emphasize politeness and harmony, while Batak families may stress resilience and independence.5
• Malaysia: Ethnic diversity (Malay, Chinese, and Indian) shapes parenting. Malay families prioritize Islamic teachings, while Chinese parents often focus on academic excellence and discipline.6

Socio-Economic Factors

• In Indonesia, rural families often rely on traditional practices, while urban parents are more influenced by global parenting trends.
• Malaysia’s government initiatives, such as parenting workshops and financial support, provide urban parents with resources for modern parenting approaches.7

Educational Expectations
Malaysian parents, particularly among the Chinese community, emphasize high academic achievement, enrolling children in tuition centers and extracurricular activities. In contrast, Indonesian parents place a stronger emphasis on religious education, especially in pesantren communities.8

3. Challenges Faced by Parents

Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Parents in both countries face a dilemma between preserving traditional values and adopting modern parenting practices. Urbanization and globalization have introduced new expectations, such as fostering independence and creativity, which sometimes conflict with traditional norms.9

Digital Media and Technology
The rise of digital media has created challenges for parents in managing screen time and ensuring children access appropriate content. In Malaysia, government campaigns on digital literacy have been introduced, while Indonesian parents often rely on informal strategies.10

Economic Inequalities
In Indonesia, economic disparities result in varying parenting resources between rural and urban families. In Malaysia, rural families sometimes struggle to access parenting programs and resources available in urban areas.11

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Conclusion

Parenting patterns in Indonesia and Malaysia reflect their shared cultural and religious heritage while showcasing unique adaptations to local contexts. Both countries prioritize religious and family-centered values but differ in their approaches to discipline, education, and addressing modern challenges. Policymakers and educators can foster collaboration between the two nations to share best practices, such as Malaysia’s parenting support programs and Indonesia’s community-driven approaches.

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References

1. Abdullah, W.M.R.W., Parenting and Islamic Values in Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, 2018.
2. Azra, A., Madrasah and Parenting Practices in Indonesia, Jakarta: Gramedia, 2016.
3. Zuhdi, M., “Extended Family Roles in Parenting,” Journal of Family Studies, Vol. 14, No. 2 (2021): 215-229.
4. Yusuf, I., “Discipline in Southeast Asian Muslim Families,” Asian Social Science, Vol. 18, No. 4 (2022): 102-118.
5. Ministry of Education Indonesia, Parenting Patterns in Indonesia: Regional Perspectives, Jakarta: MORA, 2019.
6. Lim, C.H., Ethnic Differences in Parenting in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur: Malaysian Studies Press, 2020.
7. Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development Malaysia, National Parenting Guidelines, Putrajaya: Government Press, 2021.
8. Widodo, A., Religious and Academic Goals in Indonesian Parenting, Bandung: ITB Press, 2020.
9. Abdullah, H., “Globalization and Parenting in Malaysia,” Southeast Asian Journal of Social Sciences, Vol. 15, No. 2 (2021): 45-59.
10. Yusoff, N., Digital Parenting Challenges in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur: Universiti Malaya Press, 2022.
11. Yusuf, I., “Economic Inequalities and Parenting Resources,” Journal of Southeast Asian Development, Vol. 19, No. 3 (2022): 89-110.

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