The Riau Malay Culture (BMR) subject as a local content in elementary schools plays an important role in instilling cultural values rooted in Malay wisdom. These values are expected to shape students’ character in line with Islamic teachings and local culture. This study aims to investigate the efforts of internalizing local cultural values through an ethnopedagogical approach in the BMR subject and its contribution to the character formation of fourth-grade students at SD Muhammadiyah 1 Pekanbaru. The study employed a qualitative descriptive method. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation involving BMR teachers, fourth-grade students, and school administrators. The findings indicate that cultural value internalization was carried out through folklore, pantun (Malay rhymes), proverbs, traditional games, and daily habituation. The values instilled include politeness, cooperation, responsibility, and respect. The ethnopedagogical approach proved effective in fostering students’ discipline, politeness, and social awareness. Main challenges include limited time, inadequate learning media, and students’ diverse backgrounds. The implementation of ethnopedagogy in BMR learning is effective in internalizing local cultural values while simultaneously nurturing students’ Islamic character. Support from schools and parents plays a crucial role in strengthening the success of this process.