| dc.description.abstract | This study aims to analyze the pattern of patron-client relationships between
coffee farmers and tauke (middlemen) in Kampung Lelabu, Bebesen Subdistrict,
Central Aceh Regency. The patron-client relationship in this context refers to the
social and economic ties established between two parties of different social and
economic status, where coffee farmers act as clients and tauke serve as patrons.
This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with data collection
techniques conducted through in-depth interviews with ten coffee farmers and five
tauke who have maintained business relationships over the years. The findings
indicate that the patron-client relationships between farmers and tauke are strong
and tend to be long-lasting. Economic dependency is the main factor that
strengthens this relationship, as farmers rely on tauke not only for selling their
harvests but also for financial assistance in the form of loans. Farmers’ loyalty to
tauke is further reinforced by personal social relationships built on trust and
honesty. The working system established is informal without any written contract,
with loan repayments made flexibly through harvest deductions. No conflicts were
found between farmers and tauke, indicating that the relationship runs
harmoniously and mutually beneficially. This study concludes that the patron-
client relationship between coffee farmers and tauke in Kampung Lelabu is not
solely driven by economic needs but is also influenced by social, moral, and
emotional factors that strengthen loyalty and relationship continuity. The four
main factors analyzed in this study—personal aspects, reciprocity, loyalty, and
relationship sustainability—serve as key elements in understanding the relational
patterns that have lasted for decades in traditional agrarian communities.
Keywords: Patron-Client, Coffee Farmers, Tauke, Loyalty, Trust, Social Relations | en_US |
