Unlocking the Past: Inside an Indonesian Islamic Boarding School
Magetan/Boyolali, Indonesia – Imtihan Syafi’i, the principal of an Indonesian Islamic boarding school, exudes warmth and humor as he showcases the modern amenities of Pesantren Darul Quddus. Located in Magetan regency, this school stands as a testament to the changing landscape of Islamic education in Indonesia.
Embracing Connectivity in Education
- Wi-Fi routers and smartphones connect students to the wider world
- Mixed-gender school with separate dormitories for males and females
- Emphasis on empowering students to make their own choices
A Dark History Unveiled
Despite its current progressive outlook, Pesantren Darul Quddus has a troubled past. Imtihan Syafi’i, a former leader of the now-defunct terror group Jemaah Islamiyah, acknowledges the school’s ties to extremism.
- Former teachers and students involved with Jemaah Islamiyah
- Recruitment activities ceased after the arrest of key figures
- Jemaah Islamiyah’s role in terrorist attacks in Southeast Asia
A Shift Towards Mainstream Education
Following Jemaah Islamiyah’s dissolution in 2015, affiliated pesantrens like Pesantren Darul Quddus are undergoing a transformation.
- Focus on mainstream Islamic teachings
- Removal of extremist content from educational materials
- Emphasis on religious knowledge and Islamic jurisprudence
The Challenge of Extremist Influence
Despite efforts to reform educational practices, experts warn of lingering extremist influences in select pesantrens.
- Selective recruitment of students for extremist teachings
- Extra-curricular sessions for new recruits
- Continued vigilance needed to counter radical ideologies
In conclusion, the story of Pesantren Darul Quddus showcases the complex interplay between education, extremism, and societal change in Indonesia. By understanding the challenges faced by Islamic boarding schools and the efforts to combat radicalization, we gain insight into the broader struggle against terrorism and the importance of promoting tolerance and moderation in education.