Warung Jablay practices in Hulu Sungai Utara Regency: A sociology of Islamic law perspective

Warung Jablay in Hulu Sungai Utara Regency is an informal business whose economic function intersects with social interactions that some members perceive as contrary to religious and moral norms. This study analyzes Warung Jablay practices from the perspective of the sociology of Islamic law by examining characteristics, factors motivating women to work as attendants, the views of religious scholars and local communities, and the relationship between Sharia norms and social realities. The study employed a qualitative normative-sociological approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s procedures. The findings demonstrate that Warung Jablay establishments do not have uniform characteristics. Some operate as food and beverage stalls, whereas others provide additional services and interactions perceived as exceeding the boundaries of permissible trade. Women’s decisions to work there are influenced by economic pressure, limited employment opportunities, limited education and skills, income considerations, and individual agency. Religious scholars and local communities distinguish legitimate trade from interactions they consider to violate norms, although their assessments are shaped by social constructs and stigma toward female workers. The study identifies socio-legal negotiations among economic needs, women’s agency, religious norms, social control, and local regulations. These findings show that Islamic law in a religious society does not operate linearly but is negotiated within local economic structures and social relations. Addressing this phenomenon requires proportionate legal oversight, religious guidance, social protection, skills training, and economic empowerment without reinforcing stigma against female workers.