Gender and its Relationship with the Development of Islam on Ay Island, Banda Neira

A Socio-Religious Study

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the relationship between gender and the development of Islam on Ay Island, Banda Neira, from a socio-religious perspective. The main focus of this research is the role of men and women in religious life, Islamic education, and their involvement in socio-religious practices. This research uses a quantitative method with a correlational approach. Data were obtained through surveys, interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis of the history of Islamic development on Ay Island. The results show that there are differences in participation between men and women in various socio-religious aspects. In religious leadership, 85% of formal positions are still dominated by men, while women are more active in informal Islamic education such as pengajian and madrasah, with 72% of community-based activities managed by women. However, only 35% of women hold leadership positions in formal socio-religious organizations. In addition, 64% of women feel they have limited access to large-scale religious activities, although 78% of communities have shown increased acceptance of women's active role in socio-religious activities. The implications of this study show that although Islam on Ay Island provides space for women's participation, there are still gaps in access and formal leadership. Therefore, efforts are needed to increase women's involvement in wider religious activities through more inclusive policies and strengthening women's capacity in leadership. The results of this study contribute to the understanding of gender dynamics in coastal Muslim communities and provide insights for academics and policy makers in developing Islam-based gender empowerment strategies.

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