Integration of Islamic Educational Values in the Archipelagic Culture as a Foundation of National Character Building

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the integration of Islamic educational values in the culture of the Indonesian archipelago as an effort to strengthen the character of a religious, civilized, and distinctive nation. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this study combines literature review, text analysis, and historical study to examine how Islamic values—such as monotheism, morals, knowledge, and charity—are internalized in local cultural practices. The findings show that the acculturation between Islam and the culture of the archipelago has produced a moderate, tolerant, and contextual Islamic character. Various traditions such as selametan, tahlilan, and the development of Islamic boarding schools show that Islamic teachings are able to blend harmoniously without losing their religious substance. The novelty of this research lies in its analysis of the synergistic relationship between Islamic educational values and Nusantara traditions as a strategy for nation building in the era of globalization. The implications of this research emphasize the importance of preserving local culture based on Islamic values as the foundation for strengthening national identity