Strengthening Contextual Studies, UIN Jakarta Rector Examines Master's Thesis on Islamic Cultural History

FAH, UIN Online News — The Master's Program in Islamic Cultural History at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta held a thesis defense focusing on the intellectual figure of Nahdlatul Ulama, Agus Sunyoto (1959–2021). The thesis, titled "Agus Sunyoto (1959–2021): His Thought and Contribution in the Nusantara Islam Discourse," was written by Farida Novita Rahmah and defended on Wednesday (July 9, 2025).

The defense was directly attended by UIN Jakarta Rector, Prof. Asep Saepuddin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., who also served as one of the examiners. The Rector was accompanied by Prof. Jajat Burhanudin, M.A., Prof. Sudartono Abdul Hakim, M.A., Prof. Jajang Jahroni, M.A., Ph.D., Saiful Umam, M.A., Ph.D., and Dr. Mauidlotun Nisa’, M.Hum.

During the examination session, the Rector highlighted the importance of clarity in the paradigm and scientific approach used in the study of Agus Sunyoto's thought. He questioned how this figure was academically deemed worthy of being placed within the framework of Nusantara Islam discourse.

“In academic study, it is important to explain the paradigmatic foundation of the figure being examined. What is the scientific reason Agus Sunyoto is considered worthy of being part of the Nusantara Islam discourse? What theories and approaches are used to measure it?” he inquired.

In response, the researcher explained that a sociological framework served as the primary approach in interpreting Agus Sunyoto's thought. Concepts such as social structure, collective consciousness, and the legitimacy of knowledge were deemed capable of explaining how the figure's ideas gained traction within Indonesian Muslim society.

As a cultural figure and a prominent personality within NU (Nahdlatul Ulama), Agus Sunyoto held a strategic position in disseminating ideas through mass media, religious organizations, and educational institutions. His thoughts on Nusantara Islam are considered in line with efforts to explore the historical and cultural roots of Islam in Indonesia, offering a balance between local traditions, Sufi spirituality, tolerance, and the continuity of indigenous Islamic history. His works, especially Atlas Wali Songo, serve as important references in public religious discourse. Although he employed a narrative-cultural approach that did not always follow formal academic patterns, his thought gained epistemic legitimacy through his affiliation with Lesbumi NU and active involvement in academic and cultural forums.

The Rector's presence at this defense signifies support for strengthening the tradition of critical and contextual research. Beyond adding scholarly weight to the examination process, the active participation of university leadership also encourages students and the academic community in developing Islamic studies relevant to Indonesia's cultural context.

(FN Rahmah/Faculty of Adab and Humanities Release)