A Batin is the chief of an ethnic group. The term is used at least in two areas, including Petalangan, Kabupaten Pelalawan and Kabupaten Siak, both in Riau Province. For Petalangan people, the term means a chief who has the authority over Hutan Tanah Wilayat. Besides, a Batin is also a Pucuk Adat Persukuan (head of adat). The position of Batin is inherited through maternal lineage. He is allowed to sentence his own children if they are found guilty.

(Tunggul Tauladan/ensi/01/01-2010)

Translation by Reza Daffi (terj/08/02-10)

Reference:

• Sudirman Shomary, 2004. Nyanyi Panjang orang Petalangan Kabupaten Pelalawan. Pekanbaru: UIR Press.