The Minang are -- Muslim

The Minang are considered to be among the most fervent Muslims in Indonesia. In fact, a Minang proverb proclaims: "To be Minang is to be Muslim."

Many Minang faithfully practice the five pillars of Islam: reciting the creed, prayer five times daily, giving alms, fasting during the day for forty days a year, and journeying to Mecca. Muslim religious services held on Friday afternoons are well attended.

Folk religious practices are present but they are looked down upon. Some of these folk practitioners attempt to mix folk religion with Islam. For instance, they treat the Qu'ran and its verses as if they had magical power. They also defend mystical practices such as healing, martial arts, and health potions as being Islamic.