Integrating Local Wisdom and Islamic Values in Multicultural Education at Madrasah Aliyah Pekalongan.

Abstract

The complexity of Indonesia’s cultural diversity challenges Islamic education institutions to promote inclusivity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Pekalongan, a coastal city known for its plural society and textile industry, represents a microcosm of multicultural life within an Islamic setting. Madrasah Aliyah (Islamic Senior High Schools) in this city serve as laboratories of social integration where Islamic teachings, local wisdom, and modern educational values converge. This study explores how teachers in Pekalongan’s Madrasah Aliyah integrate local wisdom and Islamic values to shape multicultural awareness and social harmony among students. It also investigates the broader social impact of these practices and compares approaches among various institutions. Using a qualitative multiple case study, data were collected from classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis. Thematic analysis identified patterns of pedagogical strategies and value integration. The findings reveal three dominant themes: (1) local cultural ethics such as gotong royong and tata krama are systematically embedded in religious instruction; (2) teachers use Islamic narratives emphasizing rahmatan lil ‘alamin and adl to contextualize diversity ; and (3) these practices strengthen students’ empathy, social trust, and resilience in pluralistic environments. The synergy of Islamic ethics and local wisdom offers a powerful model for multicultural education, fostering inclusive citizenship and sustainable peace. This model may serve as a benchmark for Islamic schools nationwide.