The Transformation of Islamic Education within the Nusantara Culture: A Comparative Analysis between Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam

Abstract

This researchexamines the transformation of Islamic education in the archipelago culture, with afocus on Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam as models for the formation ofMalay-Archipelago Islamic civilization. The background of the issue stems from the phenomenon ofthe integration of Islamic values with local cultures, which has beenpeaceful and adaptive since its early spread in Southeast Asia. The main objective of this research is to analyze the transformation process, explore thesimilarities and differences in the systems, institutional structures, and policies ofIslamic education in Indonesia and Brunei, as well as examine the role of local culturein shaping the character and identity of Islamic education. Using a descriptive qualitative approach through literature study andcomparative analysis, this research identifies the dynamics of policies,institutional structures, and Islamic education practices that are relevant in the context ofthe integration of religious values and local culture. The results show thatIslamic education in both countries plays a central role as an instrument for character building, identity inheritance, and maintaining the continuity of Islamic civilization.Indonesia presents an inclusive, adaptive, and pluralistic model of Islamic education, while Brunei implements a centralized, stable system that isconsistent with the principles of Melayu Islam Beraja. The novelty of this studylies in its comparative analysis, which confirms that both models of Islamic educationhave the potential to serve as references for the sustainable development of Islamic education inthe Southeast Asian region. The implications of this study provide recommendations forstrengthening the Islamic education system based on local cultural values as a strategyfor facing the challenges of globalization and strengthening the identity of Muslims in themodern era.