PERAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MEMBENTUK KARAKTER SISWA DI MA MUALIMAT MALANG

Abstract

Islamic Religious Education holds a strategic position in Indonesia’s national education
system, especially in the formation of students’ character. This article provides an in-depth
discussion on the role of Islamic Religious Education in shaping the character of students at
MA Mualimat Malang. This study is motivated by the urgent need for character education
that can protect the younger generation from moral degradation and identity crises. Using a
descriptive qualitative approach, the author conducted direct observations, interviews with
Islamic education teachers, students, and school authorities, as well as document analysis of
religious learning activities in the school. The purpose of this study is to describe the role of
Islamic Religious Education in shaping the character of students at MA Mualimat Malang.
Islamic Religious Education does not merely serve as a medium for transferring religious
knowledge, but also functions as a means of nurturing noble character and morality. The
research findings indicate that Islamic Religious Education at MA Mualimat Malang is
implemented not only through formal classroom subjects, but also through extracurricular
activities such as religious gatherings, Qur’an memorization, and structured daily worship
routines. The religious learning process in this school emphasizes the internalization of
spiritual and moral values such as honesty, responsibility, discipline, empathy, and respect
for others. Teachers play a crucial role as role models and mentors who instill Islamic values
through affective approaches and personal example. A religious school environment and a
supportive school culture also serve as key supporting factors in the success of the character
education program.