TURKISH TRANSNATIONAL ISLAMIC MOVEMENT IN INDONESIA CASE STUDY: SULAIMANIYAH GROUP MOVEMENT

Abstract

Literature on Transnationalism is very much influenced by references which depict transnationalism issue as a threat. Various discussion on transnationalism is very often connected to issues of radicalism, terrorism, criminality, global warming and others which have negative nuance. It is due to these references that the understanding of transnationalism is directed as a dangerous and threatening concept. This study raises the phenomenon of a Turkish Islamic movement known as the Sulaimaniyah Group, run by some Turkish muslim youths in various areas in Indonesia since 2005. By using qualitative approach, this study aims at elaborating more deeply the motivation of the Turkish youths in leaving their homeland and conducting transnationalism activities in Indonesia. In addition, the study also wants to know how their presence is perceived by Indonesian societies. The qualitative data is mainly obtained through observations in some Sulaimaniyah Boarding Schools in Jakarta areas and the surrounding, as well as through deep interviews with the activists and students of the Schools. Research findings indicate that the presence of Sulaimaniyah Group in Indonesia shows the Turkish identity presentation built by a construction that involves historical understanding and response towards globalization.