Sejarah Tulisan Arab-Melayu Warisan Budaya dan Identitas Islam di Nusantara

Abstract

Arabic-Malay writing, or aksara Jawi, is a writing system adapted from the Arabic alphabet and used to write the Malay language. Since its emergence in the 13th century, it has played a significant role in the Islamization process, education, and the formation of Malay cultural identity in Southeast Asia. This writing system has not only functioned as a medium for religious propagation but also as a vehicle for literary, administrative, and scholarly activities in the Malay world.This journal aims to examine the origins, development, and functions of Arabic-Malay writing in Nusantara society. By using a descriptive-historical approach, the study explores how aksara Jawi evolved over time and contributed to shaping the identity of the Malay Muslim community. Furthermore, the article discusses the current challenges in preserving this writing tradition in the face of modernization and the dominance of the Latin alphabet in education and communication.The findings indicate that Arabic-Malay script is a valuable cultural heritage that reflects the intertwined history of language, religion, and identity in the region. As a symbol of Malay Islamic civilization, its preservation is crucial for maintaining cultural continuity and fostering appreciation for local traditions among future generations.