In Minangkabau the role of ninik mamak, mamak and kamanakan is very important. For example,
when there is a problem between communities, it is Ninik Mamak who will handle it.
So what’s the difference between ninik mamak and mamak? So, ninik mamak consists of several
penghulu, existing tribes, while the mamak is the mother’s brother. Ninik mamak are elders in
the tribe and in their nagari, usually ninik mamak are traditional leaders in Minang whose leadership
is usually traditional, the position of ninik mamak is usually different, some are equal
and some are tiered. This article aims to determine the role of ninik mamak, mamak and kamanakan
both in terms of function and meaning. Method for the study uses the library, namely
reading existing sources such as articles related to the theme. In Minang, the role of mamak is
very important to the children. Mamak will teach all things about the norms that exist in the
family, with that kamanakan who will carry on for the next if mamak is no longer there. and
the mamak acts as a protector for her sisters and keeps the inheritance, then as a mamak, she
must set a good example for her kamanakan so that her kamanakan will emulate her mamak’s attitude.
With a good upbringing from mamak then kamanakan will be noticed by the community.
Keywords: Ninik Mamak, Mamak, Kamanakan, Minangkabau.