Panglima Laot: The Oldest Maritime Customary Law Institution in Aceh

Panglima Laot (literally translated as 'Sea Commander') is a unique traditional customary institution in Aceh tasked with regulating marine navigation, fishing activities, coastal ecosystem conservation, and resolving disputes among fishermen. This maritime institution is one of the oldest in Indonesia, formally recognized by local laws and strictly obeyed by Acehnese fishermen up to the modern era.

Historically, the institution of Panglima Laot was systematically established during the Golden Age of the Aceh Sultanate under Sultan Iskandar Muda in the 17th century. The Sultan appointed a maritime customary commander at each major port (*kuala*) to oversee import duties from foreign trading ships, maintain harbor security, and mobilize local fishing fleets to support the sultanate's navy during conflicts. Over time, this defense role shifted toward civil customary administration and the welfare of coastal communities.

The customary laws of Panglima Laot consist of strict rules handed down orally through generations. These include *Hari Pantang Melaut* (days when fishing is strictly forbidden, such as all day on Fridays, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the December 26th Tsunami Remembrance Day) to allow marine life to rest and fishermen to gather with their families. The law also bans destructive fishing methods, mandates emergency mutual assistance at sea for distressed boats (*meuruko*), and enforces customary sanctions like boat seizure or temporary fishing bans for violators.

References & Customary Sources: 1. Majelis Adat Aceh (MAA). (2019). *Standardization Guidebook for Panglima Laot Customary Marine Law*. 2. Kurdi, M. M. (2012). *Custom and Marine Law in the Veranda of Mecca*. Banda Aceh: MAA. 3. Journal of Traditional Maritime Law Studies: Panglima Laot, Syiah Kuala University. (2020). 4. Decree of the Governor of Aceh on the Recognition of Regional Customary Marine Institutions.