LOCAL CULTURAL VALUES IN CAPITAL ACCOUNTING OF TRADITIONAL CLOTHING ENTERPRISES

Abstract

This study addresses the limited research on capital accounting theory in local culture, particularly within the Islamic values of the Gorontalo community. Small business accounting practices are not only technical but also reflect local wisdom that enriches accounting knowledge. This topic is important because it provides new insights into how culture and spirituality shape capital accounting practices. The novelty of this study lies in applying Islamic ethnomethodology to explore the meaning of capital accounting, filling the gap in research on integrating local culture and spiritual values into accounting theory. The research employed a spiritual paradigm with an Islamic ethnomethodological approach. Data were analyzed through five stages: charity, knowledge, faith, revelation information, and courtesy. Findings show that business capital in traditional clothing rentals in Gorontalo comes from personal funds and is recorded only by memory. This practice reflects the value of patience, expressed in “mopo’o tanggalo duhelo” meaning full of patience. In conclusion, capital accounting based on local culture represents not only economic aspects but also Islamic spiritual values. The study contributes to accounting culture theory and offers practical guidance for local entrepreneurs.