Exploring Ulama's Political Messages in Digital Media Sermons: Youth Perspectives and Practical Meanings

Abstract

Discussing social and state issues is important in the
context of a democratic country. Every citizen has the right to
involve in political communication to channel their aspirations
about their country. This includes discussing economic,
educational, religious, cultural and development planning
issues. As muslim community leaders, it is critical that ulama
involve in conveying political messages about the development
process to state officials, political actors and parties, and the
wider community. Ulama need to provide advice so that national
development is carried out with a full sense of responsibility.
This research will explore people views on political messages of
ulama in religious lectures published on social media. It also
seek to understand what people think about the meaning of the
ulama's political messages in his lectures. This research uses
qualitative methods through in-depth interviews and content
analysis. Five informants were asked for their views on the
political messages conveyed by clerics via social media.
Researchers have also watched, listened, recorded and analyzed
the content of ulama's political messages on various social
media platforms. This research found that the public expects
ulama to be more active in providing political messages to state
officials and other political activists. This is important to remind
them to avoid abuse of power, committing acts of corruption,
and prioritizing their personal and group interests. Research also
finds that clerics' preaching material on social media is very
important, as evaluation material for state officials and political
activists in implementing development.