PERCEPTION OF NON-MUSLIM RELIGIOUS LEADERS TO ISLAMIC FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Eko Kurniasih Pratiwi*, Fahmi Medias, Nasitotul Janah
Universitas Muhammadiyah Magelang
*Email coresponding author: ekokurniasihpratiwi[at]ummgl.ac.id
Abstract
Islamic Financial Institutions have emerged using Islamic values as the basis for institutional development. Meanwhile, the existence of faith-based institutions both for social purposes and profits is often seen as an exclusive institution and is considered a threat to followers of other religions. This study aims to determine the perception of religious leaders about the existence of Islamic financial institutions. This research uses descriptive exploration method through interviews with religious leaders (Christian, Catholic, Hindu, Buddhist and Confucian) related to their knowledge and perceptions about Islamic financial institutions. The results showed that 60% of religious leaders did not know of Islamic financial institutions, while another 40% held that Islamic financial institutions were institutions that were only intended for Muslims (exclusive institutions). the type of institution known by the majority of religious leaders is only an Islamic bank and its institutional form is the same as a savings and credit cooperative or conventional bank. Although considered an exclusive financial institution, Islamic financial institutions are not considered a theological threat to other religious communities. The results showed that socialization efforts regarding the existence of Islamic financial institutions to the religious community were still needed so that the actualization of the concept of Islam through inclusive financial institutions could be realized.
Keywords: Perception; religious leaders; Islamic financial institutions
Topic: Religious Studies