Yogyakarta, 3rd of December 2024 – Dr. Sunarwoto, a lecturer and researcher at the Graduate Program of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, presented an insightful study on the expansion of Salafism in Indonesia during the 2024 Graduate Conference themed “Governance and Governmentality: Islam, State, and Market.” His presentation discussed how the Salafi movement, which began as an urban phenomenon, has expanded through halaqah (study circles) and daurah (training sessions), leading to the establishment of numerous pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) throughout Java and beyond.

Dr. Sunarwoto emphasized that the success of Salafism in Indonesia is closely tied to its ability to adapt to social, cultural, and political contexts, as well as its strategic engagement with the Islamic market. The Salafi movement's capacity to navigate these dynamics has contributed to the growing acceptance of its da’wah (Islamic propagation) efforts. Furthermore, its active participation in the Islamic market—through various enterprises such as media outlets, sharia-compliant businesses, and educational institutions—has solidified Salafism as a key player within Indonesia's Islamic economy.

Despite initial criticisms of Salafism’s association with Arabism and its perceived incompatibility with local cultural traditions, Dr. Sunarwoto noted a growing trend of selective adaptation to local customs. For example, the movement has adopted traditional attire such as batik and peci (traditional caps), while still maintaining a strict stance on the prohibition of music, in line with its theological principles.

The researcher also highlighted the crucial role of financial resources in supporting the Salafi movement. In addition to foreign donations from organizations like Ihya Turath in Kuwait, Salafi groups in Indonesia have increasingly funded their activities through economic ventures. These include umrah travel agencies, publishing houses, sharia-compliant counseling services, and more. Such ventures underscore the significant public support for Salafi da’wah and reflect the movement’s growing influence in Indonesia's Islamic market.

Lastly, Dr. Sunarwoto pointed out the importance of education in the development of Salafism in Indonesia. The expansion of Salafi-run pesantren, schools, and universities across Java and other regions highlights the movement’s investment in education and social mobility. A growing number of young Salafi adherents are pursuing higher education both domestically and abroad, which has allowed them greater economic and social mobility, as well as access to formal sectors such as teaching, civil service, and law enforcement.

Dr. Sunarwoto’s presentation provided valuable insights into the complex relationship between Salafism, state governance, and the Islamic market in Indonesia, offering a deeper understanding of the movement's evolution and its significant influence in the country.