The Minangkabau culture is very distinct, in the sense that it is commonly known for having "the largest and most stable matrilineal society in the world." (Or, 151). The Minangkabau have more than four million people who reside in the West Sumatra region (Stark, 1) and have a well-established trading system with other regions in Indonesia. They contribute greatly to the trading system and have been able to influence others through their culture. Even with a matrilineal system, it is men who play the main role in society. The role of men is another reason why the trading industry is so successful. Ultimately, it is adat that governs Minangkabau culture. The social structure of the Minangkabau is their matrilineal society. Matrilineal means that individuals belong to the mother's family. All property and wealth is associated through the female line, but property cannot be sold without the consent of the clan. The way the family is structured occurs when a woman is ready to marry; the wife pays a groom's price to the future husband's family, which must be given to the mother. In many cultures, the husband pays a gift to the family of the woman he wishes to marry, but in a matrilineal society, the wife pays the groom's price for the marriage to take place. Once married, this can be considered a “visiting arrangement.” (Golden 151) because the husband comes at night to be with his wife, but when morning comes, he returns to where he lives, which is his sister's house, to finish their work. He is more like a guest at his wife's house because he only goes to visit his children or for meals. Although a husband can have children, it is not his responsibility to take care of them. The man's responsibility is to take care of his sister...... middle of paper ...... which is characteristic of their matrilineal system. Most of the artworks reflect the culture and values ​​of Minangkabau. In their performances there is a lot of openness to high esteem, which is why there is a lot of interaction between the audience and the performers. Performers want to be open with the audience and connect with them. This is why they always have a circular shape during a performance. The circular pattern and communication interaction of their performing arts reflect the social and value system of Minangkabau culture. (Utama)The Minangkabau are very good at protecting their culture. Adat is their way of sticking to what they believe and not letting outside interference change their way of life. They are unique in that it is the women who control the property. In the cultures I have seen, it is the man who makes.