Ministry Of Religious Affairs Research Articles

Digital Hilal Observation: Evaluating the Authenticity of Hilal Testimonials in Indonesia Using the Digistar-6 Planetarium System

This article aims to provide supporting data to test the authenticity of testimonial claims of sighting the hilal (new moon) that have been received and decided by the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (RI) from 1962-2021 during the isbat session for the determination of the beginning of the months of Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhu al-Hijjah. Building upon the results of the author's previous research that revealed inconsistencies in the application of the minimum visibility criteria for the hilal known as imkan al-rukyat by the Ministry of Religious Affairs Indonesia. Approximately 45.5% of the hilal testimonial claims found in the Minister of Religious Affairs' decisions are doubted for their authenticity due to various reasons, including the absence of elongation data and the presence of hilal altitude data below the Ministers of Religious Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore (MABIMS) criteria. To substantiate the old data, this article employs the Digistar-6 planetarium system to provide a scientifically accurate 3D visualization of the hilal observation process through a full-dome planetarium. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this article examines all the testimonial claims data after classifying them based on the application of the imkan al-rukyat theory in MABIMS in Indonesia. The findings show several key points: First, there is no elongation data available in all of these decisions. Second, there is a variation in the use of astronomical calculations for hilal data, especially before the implementation of MABIMS criteria. Third, there is astronomical data on hilal claims post the implementation of MABIMS criteria that are accepted with altitudes below 2°. Fourth, the tendency is that the hilal can be seen with optical aids during hilal altitudes above 3° and elongations exceeding 6°. 

The struggle for the construction of places of worship of minority religions in Indonesia

The literature on the construction of places of worship has predominantly shown difficulties, rejection and disharmony among religious communities. This study aims to describe and analyzed the success story of the construction of the Santa Monica church in Tangerang. This is a qualitative study conducted over a month-long period using primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained through observation and interviews, while secondary data were obtained through formal and informal policy reviews available online. The informants involved in this study amounted to eight people consisting of church leaders and administrators, local leaders, religious leaders, religious organizations and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Data were analyzed using content analysis methods. The results of the study show that the ability of church leaders and administrators to build good social and cultural relations with the community was a key element in their success in obtaining permission to build the church. This was achieved through effective communication, dialogue and cooperation between the Catholic community, leaders and the predominantly Islamic local community. Active involvement in daily activities had a positive impact, fostering mutual trust and peaceful coexistence, ultimately resulting in the local community’s support and approval for the establishment of the place of worship. Thus, the church construction committee was able to meet all administrative requirements as stipulated by government regulations. This study recommends the importance of good social and cultural relations as the fundamental basis and determinant of success for religious communities seeking to construct places of worship.Contribution: This article contributes to the goal of HTS Theological Studies in promoting the transdisciplinary aspect of religious studies in the international theological arena, particularly in the study of religious harmony among communities in Indonesia.

The Relation of The Ministry of Religion's Interpretation of QS. Al-Ikhlas with The First Principle of Pancasila

This article aims to explain the relationship between the interpretation of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Pancasila, especially the first principle. This is motivated by the fact that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has provided signs for religious people to always maintain peace and harmony which includes three things, namely the relationship between followers of the same religion, different religions, and religious leaders with the government. This research uses a type of library research, descriptive analytical, which describes a problem by describing and analyzing the Ministry of Religion's tafsir book. Thus, this article concludes that the first principle in Pancasila, namely “Belief in One God”, contains a strong relationship with the meaning of QS. al-Ikhlash. With this relationship, one can understand the attributes of God that contain the teachings of monotheism so that the first principle of Pancasila can be said to be in accordance with Islam, because Islam upholds the omnipotence of God. The Ministry of Religious Affairs' interpretation of QS. Al-Ikhlas contains an affirmation of the purity of the Godhead and rejects all kinds of polytheism and explains that there is nothing like Him. This also applies to non-Islamic religions that recognize God as One, because the Ministry of Religious Affairs has given freedom to religious people to express their religious practices

Analisis Manajemen Penyelenggaraan Majelis Taklim: Studi Kasus Majelis Taklim Raudhatul Jannah Cengkareng Jakarta Barat

Majelis taklim is a non-formal institution recognized by the government. The existence of majelis taklim serves as one of the pillars in the development of Islamic education in society. The crucial role of majelis taklim certainly requires good management of its implementation. Therefore, this research aims to determine the management of Islamic education implementation in majelis taklim. This research uses majelis taklim Raudhatul Jannah in Kapuk, West Jakarta as its subject. The research method used is descriptive qualitative. The research instruments used are interviews and observations. The main respondent is the administrator of majelis taklim Raudhatul Jannah, with observation conducted for two months. The analysis conducted using the interactive model bya Miles and Huberman. The results show that the majelis taklim has fulfilled the elements and provisions stipulated in the Ministry of Religion Affairs Regulation number 29 of 2019. The management of administration uses on operational model. The teacher possesses adequate competencies in sufficient numbers. Activities take place not only mosque but also in classrooms and the homes of administrators and mentors. The teaching material focuses on learning the Qur’an with tajwid, recitation, and interpretation methods. Meanwhile, other materials use lectures, question and answer sessions, and practice with exercises for specific topic. This research finds that, in accordance with the standards set by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the management of majelis taklim implementation can be categorized as well-managed.

The government website as user’s information source: A model of user satisfaction, information, and system quality

The Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia uses a website to disseminate news and publications to the public. An effective strategy for developing a successful website is to build a positive user experience that leads to a positive attitude from users towards the website. User experience in terms of optimizing website utilization has not been well explored, especially regarding satisfaction. Satisfaction is influenced by information quality and system quality factors. Information quality encompasses 5 variables (completeness, accuracy, format, currency, availability) and system quality consists of nine variables (reliability, flexibility, accessibility, responsiveness, integration, usability, functionality, design appeal, efficiency). This study assessed the effect of information quality and system quality on the satisfaction of using the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ website. The target population of this study were all users who had accessed the website at least once in the last three months. The data were collected from 420 respondents and analyzed using PLS-SEM. The findings indicated that the hypothesis of the variables completeness, accuracy, format, currency, availability, reliability, flexibility, accessibility, responsiveness, integration, usability, and functionality is not supported. However, the results of this research confirmed the positive and significant effect of design appeal and efficiency on satisfaction.

Universal Islamic Education in the Regulation of Da’wah Orientation of Majelis Taklim in Indonesia

The presence of the Minister of Religious Affairs Regulation in regulating the da’wah activities of the Majelis Taklim in Indonesia has reaped resistance. There are some negative opinions by Muslims who consider the Minister of Religious Affairs Regulation contains intervention, discrimination, and even bad stigma against the da’wah activities of the Majelis Taklim in the community. This qualitative study with a normative-philosophical approach aims to identify the content of universal Islamic Education values in the da’wah orientation of the Taklim Council in Indonesia in the Regulation of the Minister of Religious Affairs no. 29 of 2019 concerning the Majelis Taklim. Study data were collected through documentation techniques. Meanwhile, data analysis through reduction, presentation, and verification.This study concludes that there is a content of universal Islamic education values in regulations on the orientation of the Majelis Taklim in Indonesia, including the value of tafahum on the development of personality characters that respect human values, and religion. Furthermore, the value of tasamuh in the development of personality characters that respect social pluralism. Next, takaful value in the development of personality characters that maintain the integration of state life. This study affirm that the values of universal Islamic education can be disseminated in the Indonesian government's policy regarding the orientation of educational institutions and Islamic da’wah in a plural social life.

Responding to Islamic finance anomalies in Indonesia: Sharia financial literacy using virtual reality context

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the process by which the level of immersion in virtual reality-based behavioral simulation (VR-BS) impacts on the non-cognitive and cognitive outcomes. The cognitive outcome is measured using the increase in the level of Sharia financial literacy, while the noncognitive outcome is measured using the behavioral intention to use VR-BS. Design/methodology/approach The method consists of two parts: First, the development of VR-BS, in the context of sharia financial literacy, using the waterfall model. Second, testing the effectiveness of VR-BS using the theory of interactive media effects framework. The participants were 142 students from three secondary schools (two Islamic religious schools and one public school) in Yogyakarta and Central Java, Indonesia. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used for testing the hypotheses. Findings VR-BS creates a perceived coolness and vividness, which in turn has an impact on increasing the participants’ engagement. Also, the use of VR has an impact on natural mapping, which increases a user’s engagement through its perceived ease of use. As predicted, the user’s engagement affects VR’s behavior, mediated by the user’s attitude toward VR media. VR’s interactivity, however, does not impact on the cognitive aspect. Research limitations/implications The participants were not randomly selected, as the data were collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the majority of the participants had never tried VR before this study. The participants, however, were digital natives. Practical implications It is implied from the findings that Islamic financial business actors and the relevant government agencies (e.g. the Indonesian Financial Services Authority [OJK], the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology and the Ministry of Religious Affairs) should collaborate to best prepare the future generation of ummah by using VR-BS in their joint promotion and education programs. The results of the current study reveal that the use of VR-BS may attract people to engage in Islamic financial activities. By engaging in such activities, or at least engaging in real-life simulations/classes/workshops, people may gradually acquire more knowledge about Islamic finance. Originality/value As predicted, the user’s engagement has an impact on behavior toward VR-BS, which is mediated by attitude toward VR-BS.

Peran Akuntansi Zakat terhadap Transparansi dan Akuntabilitas di Lembaga Amil Zakat Muhammadiyah Kota Parepare

This research employs a qualitative, descriptive research approach. The primary data sources consist of employees from LAZISMU Parepare City and representatives of the muzakki, while secondary data include necessary documents from LAZISMU Parepare City. The researcher, assisted by interview guides, documents, and a mobile phone for documentation and recording processes, acts as the research instrument. The research findings indicate that (1) LAZISMU Parepare City has been following PSAK No. 109 in its accounting processes as instructed by LAZISMU Central. Despite not yet adopting the latest revisions of PSAK No. 109 in its financial reporting process, LAZISMU Parepare City is committed to implementing the revised PSAK No. 109 in the near future. (2) In efforts to enhance transparency and accountability, LAZISMU has reported its financial statements to internal stakeholders, including muzakki who are civil servants, and has undergone audit processes by both external auditors and the Ministry of Religious Affairs. However, LAZISMU Parepare City has not reported its financial statements to external parties, particularly the wider community and non-civil servant muzakki. (3) The compliance of LAZISMU Parepare City's financial statements with Sharia principles outlined in Surah Al-Baqarah: 282 meets the criteria, as confirmed by the Sharia compliance audit conducted by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Nevertheless, certain points in the process need to be adjusted to align with the current conditions of Parepare City.

Examining ELT-knowledge-based learning outcomes within the national curriculum guidelines of Indonesian Islamic tertiary education

The study aims to critically analyse the clarity, observability, and measurability of ELT knowledge-based learning outcomes (LOs) as outlined in the current national curriculum guidelines for Indonesian Islamic higher education institutions. The researchers employed document analysis to assess 22 items of the LOs within the guidelines published in 2018 by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) through the Directorate of Indonesian Islamic Higher Education. Then, the researchers applied the Bloom’s revised taxonomy as the theoretical framework, converting LOs’ illustrative verbs to Bloom’s illustrative verbs to examine the quality of LOs to determine whether the LOs promote higher- or lower-order thinking skills. This study shows that a significant majority (95.45%) of the analysed LOs in the current national guidelines suffer from poor design (unclear, unobservable, and unmeasurable) due to the absence of Bloom’s cognitive illustrative verbs. Collectively, these findings have important implications for educators and policymakers to pay more attention to the quality of their designed LOs. It suggests an urgent need for the Directorate of Indonesian Islamic Higher Education to revise its LOs because they risk affecting the quality, relevance, and effectiveness of their education in generating graduates who have global competitiveness. Poorly designed LOs promote only lower-order skills, which paralyse graduates’ global competitiveness because they do not possess the knowledge required in the international arena. It is hoped that this study will serve as an inspiration to other countries and educational authorities facing similar challenges, encouraging them to be more meticulous in crafting well-designed LOs.

An Analysis of the Readability Level of Arabic Textbooks Published by the Ministry of Religious Affairs Through the Cloze test

The research investigates the readability level of Arabic textbooks published by the minister of religious affairs, especially the books for class IX of Arabic students measured through the cloze test. The researcher discussed this area because the readability aspect often needs more attention from textbook writers. The textbook writers sometimes use complex sentences without considering the age and cognitive level of the students, which impacts students' difficulty understanding the book's meaning. Furthermore, the teacher needs to evaluate the readability level of their occupation. The method of this research used qualitative research. The research sample is Class IX A of one of the MTs in Cirebon, consisting of 30 students. This research revealed six discourses in Arabic language textbooks of class IX students. Unfortunately, only three discourses are included in an instructional category appropriate to students' competency level, and two are included in the frustrated or difficult category. Meanwhile, one discourse consists of an independent or easy category. The overall average student score is 54%, which shows the books used for learning activities appropriate to the instructional level (Appropriate).

Religious Moderation in Indonesia: Implementation by National Christian Institution to Strengthen National Resilience

Religious moderation is a program introduced by the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs to promote unity and harmony as a response to frequent intolerance incidents in the country that risks national resilience. This research begins by identifying how religious moderation is poured into a nationwide strategy through a presidential regulation and Ministry of Religious Affairs’ roadmap, which then progresses to how PGI as a Christian organisation implements religious moderation into their own strategy. The results of this research suggest that PGI has contributed to religious moderation for decades by initiating interfaith networks, launching tolerance programs and advocating vulnerable groups. These measures are considered as coping and adaptive strategies in strengthening national resilience but have yet to touch on a transformative level that would be deemed more effective as intolerance incidents are still recurring in the present.

The Bureaucratization of Islam in Algeria: The State as the Only Controller of Religion

Since its independence in 1962, Algeria used Islam to strengthen the sense of national identity or as a tool of self-legitimization. The Algerian political elite not only legitimized governments in the shadow of Islam, but institutionalized it through different organisms, represented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf), the Islamic High Council, and more recent institutions, such as those gravitating around the Great Mosque of Algiers with important cultural, social, and administrative tasks. This bureaucratization of Islam represented the cornerstone of the state fight against radicalization and the crystallization of an Algerian national Islam that has been vital for the stabilization of the country.

Knowledge Management Practices in Enhancing Academic Output: A Study of Indonesian Islamic Universities

This study examines knowledge management strategies employed by Islamic universities in Indonesia to boost academic knowledge production. It explores the policies designed to support lecturers and students in producing and publishing scholarly work that is accessible and recognized within the scientific community. Focusing on five state Islamic Higher Education institutions (PTKIN) selected for their Sinta 2.0 ranking, the research identifies unique and standard policies across these universities to enhance knowledge output. Findings reveal that each PTKIN implements specific strategies to increase knowledge production and values contributions to reputable international journals. These strategies include providing resources and support for knowledge creation rooted in a shared foundation of program improvements directed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The study highlights how these universities adapt and extend existing initiatives to meet their unique needs, demonstrating the effectiveness of tailored knowledge management practices in fostering academic excellence.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PRE-MARRIAGE COURSES IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF ISLAMIC COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has formulated the Regulation of the Director General of Islamic Public Guidance No. DJ.II/542 of 2013 concerning Guidelines for the Implementation of Pre-Marriage Courses, which are applied at the Office of Religious Affairs of Tanjung Karang Timur District. This research aims to know how far the level of significance of pre-marriage courses is to people of marriageable age as a form of increasing understanding of the community from the perspective of Islamic community development. The approach used is a qualitative approach. Data is sourced from primary, secondary, and population and sample data. The population is 16 pairs of prospective brides or 32 people, and the sample is 8 pairs of prospective brides or 16. With data collection techniques such as interviews, observation, documentation, and data analysis. Based on the results from research on the implementation of pre-marital courses and the processes carried out, it can be concluded that pre-marital courses are beneficial and necessary for the community. Community development aims to improve the quality of life of the community through the awareness process, the capacity-building process, and the enrichment process. It is significant for creating a Sakinah family.

Hajj Funds Management Based on Maqāṣid Al-Sharīʿah; A Proposal for Indonesian Context

Indonesian hajj funds (BIPH) have the potential to support the implementation of hajj worship in an effective, efficient, transparent, and accountable manner while complying with Islamic law. However, it is said that the management turned out to be ineffective and unprofessional. This research aims to examine the management of hajj funds in detail using maqāṣid al-sharīʿah perspective to propose a breakthrough for its better management. It uses a normative juridical method through data presentation and explanation using an interdisciplinary perspective on maqāṣid al-sharīʿah. The data comes from journal articles, scientific documents, and statistical data. The research results show that in maqāṣid al-sharīʿah perspective, namely an instrument to create a balance of the Muslim way of life with Islamic legal values in social, political, economic, spiritual, and universal human aspects, the ḥifẓ māldimension urges using hajj funds for the benefit of society. Therefore, the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) should collaborate with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and other related stakeholders to manage Hajj funds optimally and efficiently while increasing trust and reducing negative public perceptions. Policies and regulations by the government are made in such a way that it can ease hajj pilgrims to carry out the worship comfortably, safely, smoothly, and spiritually enriching.

Diversity Communication of Interreligious Harmonization: A Case Study of Rama Agung Village, Bengkulu Utara Regency, Indonesia

Indonesia is known as a country that has many tribes, cultures, races, religions, and codes of conduct of the people. But the exciting thing is that the complexity of diversity does not divide Indonesia. Rama Agung Village, Bengkulu Utara Regency, was designated as a Religious Harmony Village in Bengkulu Province in 2018 by the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. Upon launching the minister of religion, the Governor of Bengkulu designated it as a Miniature Village of Religious Harmony in Bengkulu Province. This is in line with the decision of the Regent of Bengkulu Utara in 2021, which established Rama Agung Village as a Religious Tourism Village. In this position, religious and cultural tolerance becomes important as the main indicator that can reduce points of conflict between individuals, social classes, and society. This tolerance was formed not on the basis of an accident. Still, the similarity of struggle that gave birth to valuable lessons bound in the points and points of Pancasila elaborated in the State Constitution and actualized in everyday life. This research design uses qualitative methods with a single instrumental case study approach. Data collection will be collected through interviews and document review. The results showed that the harmonization that occurs in Rama Agung village is currently maintained because of the value of harmony instilled by the community in interreligious life, namely open communication between fellow believers, mutual respect for other religious celebrations, and the rules of other religions.

Efektivitas Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu (PTSP) di Kantor Urusan Agama (KUA) Kota Palembang

This research is motivated by regulations made and implemented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in advancing the best service for the community. Based on this background, in this study there are two formulations of problems, namely 1) How to Implement One-Stop Integrated Services (PTSP) at the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) Palembang City, 2) How is the Public View of One-Stop Integrated Services (PTSP) at the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) Palembang City. The method used in this study is a descriptive qualitative method with data collection obtained from interviews and docuemtation at institutions and also the community and taking samples at 6 (six) Religious Affairs Offices (KUA) in Palembang city, namely 1) KUA Ilir Timur II, 2) KUA Ilir Barat I, 3) KUA Seberang Ulu I, 4) KUA Sukarami,  5) KUA Kalidoni, 6) KUA Sematang Bform. The results obtained in this study are that the implementation of the One-Stop Integrated Service (PTSP) at the Palembang City Religious Affairs Office makes a good service flow and is arranged in such a way that later it can provide services that are fast, easy, precise, and as needed through a clear flow and of course minimize illegal levies and in the view of the community the application of services at the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) is very helpful.  Because, with this service can be beneficial for the community because it can make it easier for people to request and receive services properly, quickly and easily.

THE HISTORICAL FOOTPRINT OF INDIA-MUSLIMS IN NORTH SUMATRA: History and Management of the Al-Mukhlish Tebingtinggi Mosque

<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>This study aims to analyze Al-Mukhlis Mosque as an Indian-Muslims heritage at Tebing Tinggi City. Data were based on Religious Court documents and interviews of the mosque’s managers. Reliable history of the mosque could be established only since 1920s. Its historical milestones includes 1) the first waqf in 1920 by Kuti Kaka, 2) change of name to Al-Mukhlis Mosque in 1950, 3) main restoration in 1978, 4) legal waqf status by Religious Court in 1986, and 5) a total renovation in 2014. Al-Mukhlis Mosque current management is appointed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The mosque activities include worship, Islamic education, and general social activities. Finally, its Indian identity remains socially acknowledged because of the presence of the Indian-Muslim community as its organizer and funder. The mosque might become the starting point for the revival of Indian-Muslims’ roles of the city.</p><p><strong>Keywords</strong>: Indian-Muslim, Mosque, East Sumatra, North Sumatra, Islam</p>

The Role of Teachers in Facing Radicalism Threats at Al-Kautsar Labschool Middle School, Bandung

Indonesia, with the world's largest Muslim population, faces serious challenges related to radicalism and terrorism. The threat of radicalism in Indonesia has spread to various aspects of life, including educational institutions, both formal and informal. This study aims to analyze the role of teachers in addressing the threat of radicalism at Al-Kautsar LabSchool Middle School in Bandung. The main theories used in this research are the theories of radicalism and the concept of the teacher's role. This research employs a qualitative approach, where data is collected through interviews and literature review. The results of this study reveal nine roles of teachers at Al-Kautsar LabSchool Middle School (SMP Al Kautsar LabsSchool) in facing the threat of radicalism, including being informants, organizers, motivators, directors, initiators, transmitters, facilitators, mediators, and negotiators. This research provides a detailed explanation of these nine roles based on the elaboration of concepts from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Sadirman AM in addressing the threat of radicalism at SMP Al Kautsar LabsSchool. Additionally, the researcher also analyzes the concept of the teacher's role in the policy options from the Ministry of Education and Culture (Kemendikbud) research in 2018 and the strategic plan of the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) for 2020-2024 to combat radicalism in the school environment.

Resepsi Moderasi Beragama Pada Masyarakat Pesantren (Studi Living Qur’an di Pondok Pesantren Attaqwa Bekasi)

This study aims to see how the pesantren community in Attaqwa Bekasi Islamic Boarding School perceives the values of religious moderation. Pesantren is considered as a small miniature of religious attitudes and perspectives in Indonesia so it is important and interesting to see how the response and response of the pesantren community to religious moderation; which is a concept related to the religious attitude of the Indonesian nation which was popularized massively by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. This research uses qualitative methods in the form of field research, data collection using interview and observation techniques and then analyzed using a descriptive analysis approach, the indicators used are four indicators of Religious Moderation carried by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, namely national commitment, tolerance, non-violence and respect for local culture. The results showed that the value of religious moderation has been understood by all elements of Islamic boarding schools, moderation is understood through wasathiyatul Islam which is considered in line with Islam. The Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School also recognizes Pancasila as the final foundation of the state and considers it not to conflict with the teachings of Islam. Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School has also implemented tolerant behavior and respects differences. Even so, students are still given the strengthening of creed and guidance on the correct application of tolerance in the Islamic view. The Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School upholds the rejection of violence, stressing that this attitude has been exemplified by its founder, KH. Noer Alie who fosters society regardless of religion, race, social status and background. Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School is known as one of the pesantren that accepts and even practices a lot of local culture in ubudiyah and muamalah. This acceptance of local culture makes Attaqwa Islamic Boarding School an accepted and even inherent in the community.