Legal Awareness of Bintan Island Coastal Communities In Preventing Election Crimes: Sociological Jurisprudence

¹ Departmen of Law, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji, Tanjungpinang, Kepulauan Riau
² Government Science, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik Raja Haji Fisabilillah, Tanjungpinang, Kepulauan Riau

^* Corresponding author: dewiharyanti@umrah.ac.id

Abstract

This research examines the legal awareness of the coastal communities on Bintan Island regarding the prevention of election crimes, using a sociological jurisprudence approach. Coastal communities in Bintan rely heavily on marine resources and exhibit low education levels, making them susceptible to exploitation during elections through black campaigns and money politics. Utilizing empirical legal research and qualitative methods, this study investigates how socio-economic factors and local customs influence legal compliance. Data were collected through surveys and interviews with community members and leaders. Findings reveal that while there is some awareness of election crimes, skepticism about law enforcement remains prevalent, further exacerbated by poverty and inadequate legal education. To address these challenges, the study recommends implementing tailored legal outreach programs and enhancing law enforcement to strengthen electoral integrity in coastal communities. By understanding the interplay between law, society, and local customs, the research provides insights into improving legal awareness and reducing election violations in Bintan Island’s coastal areas.