Profile and Contributions of Arab-Descended Ulama in Terengganu

The historical narrative of Islam in Terengganu often fails to thoroughly explore the significant role of Arab-descended ulama in shaping the state's socio-religious landscape. This deficiency creates a gap in understanding the true dynamics of local Islamic dissemination and institutionalization, leaving many unanswered questions about the origins and consolidation of religious authority. Ironically, no comprehensive conceptual framework has been developed to systematically explain their networks, profiles, and the impact of their contributions. This study employs a conceptual analysis approach, examining historical texts, old manuscripts, and existing academic works to build a more cohesive understanding. The findings reveal three main themes: First, Arab-descended ulama established educational centers that served as primary intellectual hubs, transcending geographical boundaries; Second, they played significant diplomatic and advisory roles to the state administration, indirectly shaping socio-political policies; Third, their legacy persists through scholarly traditions and religious practices that remain to this day, even though their original identity is often obscured. These findings necessitate a more critical re-evaluation of the construction of local Islamic history, to ensure a fairer and more complete narrative.

Arab Ulama, Terengganu, Intellectual History

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