Abstract

Youths are the leaders of tomorrow. However, most of the youth who areconsidered as the nation strength are still bounded by social problems. Thereare a lot of criminal cases involving them including gangsterism, promiscuity,baby dumping and drug abuse. Due to these problems, youth need a model toshape a better personality. This study examines novels by Zaid Akhtar, namelySesegar Nailofar (2000) and Rona Bhosphorus (2002) to review theirinsights into social ills. The analyses focus on issues of character among Muslimyouth through the novels’ characters as a means to create positive role models forthe youth. The research framework uses Prophetic Ideas by Kuntowijoyo, inspiredby the spirit of relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia after a long timeof following in a Western mould. The idea is derived from Surah Ali ‘Imran,verse 110, which outlines three ethical concept as its main pillars: amar makruf(enjoin what is right, humanization), nahi mungkar (forbid the wrong,liberalisation), and tu’minunabullah (believe in Allah, transcendence). As awhole, these three form the concept of kaffah, which means ‘comprehensive’ or‘integrated.’ Through analyses of the two aforementioned Zaid Akhtar novels,this study identifies elements of Kuntowijoyo’s Prophetic Ideas, and connectsthem to the concept of kaffah. The novels discuss youth and their philosophy ofjihad regarding education and the fight against enemies of Islam. Thus, those characters become better youth, avoid forbidden actions, and guide themselvesto the right path and worship of Allah. Keywords: Kaffah; young adult’s novels; Rona Bhosphorus; Sesegar Nailofar; Zaid Akhtar.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call