THE EFFECTS OF ISLAMIC EDUCATION ON RELIGIOSITY AMONG MUALLAF STUDENTS IN MALAYSIA

Background and Purpose: Islam is a way of life that needs to be practised in all areas of Muslims’ life. Thus, Islamic education should be developed in the community of its people beginning at the early stage of childhood. Religiosity is related to the effectiveness of education obtained by a person. Muallaf is a group of people who have just embraced Islam that needs to be guided and educated so that they can truly practice the teachings of Islam. The aim of this study is to explain the effectiveness of Islamic education on the Islamic religiosity of Muallaf.   Methodology: This qualitative study used an interview approach on a total of 25 Muallaf from 5 zones, namely the North Zone (Kedah), East Coast (Terengganu), West Coast (Selangor), South (Johor) and Sabah (East Malaysia). In addition, interviews with four (4) figures who are directly involved in the management of Muallaf were also conducted.   Findings: The results of the study highlighted several aspects emphasized in the Islamic education of Muallaf which are the basics of faith, prayer education, implementation of fasting, reciting the Qur’an and the issues that concerned Islamic behavior. Muallaf needs to spend a certain period to improve themselves as a true Muslim. Conclusion and Contributions: The results of this study are significant in disclosing the real situation of Muallaf in Malaysia and providing information to certain parties to conduct further research.   Keywords: Islamic education, religiosity, management, Muallaf.   Cite as: Awang, A., Che Mat, A., Musa, R., & Abdul Ghani, R. (2023). The effects of Islamic education on religiosity among Muallaf students in Malaysia. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 8(1), 290-309. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol8iss1pp290-309