The Stigma of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Balinese Traditional Village Communities and The Implications for the Customary Legal System

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, has significantly influenced various aspects of social life, including governance and legal systems within indigenous communities. In Bali, the desa adat (customary village) represents a traditional legal community that regulates social order through norms derived from awig-awig, pararem, and deliberative decision-making processes among community members (krama desa). These customary legal systems function not only as mechanisms of social regulation but also embody religious and philosophical values grounded in the concept of Tri Hita Karana. The integration of Artificial Intelligence in the administration and data management of customary villages offers opportunities to enhance efficiency in governance and the documentation of customary regulations. However, its introduction has also generated stigma and resistance among members of indigenous communities, who perceive AI as a potential threat to traditional values, the authority of customary institutions, and the sacredness of certain cultural practices. This study employs a socio-legal approach to examine the interaction between customary law, state law, and digital technology within Balinese indigenous communities. The findings reveal that stigma toward Artificial Intelligence is concerns about shifts in the authority of customary leaders (prajuru desa adat), and potential distortions of sacred cultural values. The stigma against AI is influenced by the technological literacy gap, concerns about the shift in authority of traditional village leaders, and the potential for distortion of cultural values and traditional norms. Therefore, the integration of technology should respect customary institutional structures and strengthen the legitimacy of awig-awig as a source of local law.