Syafiq Hasyim The Shariatisation of Indonesia: The Politics of the Council of Indonesian Ulama (MUI) provides a critical analysis of the shariatisation process in Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country. It offers a significant conclusion that highlights the potential for a transformation from a non-theocratic state to a theocratic one when influential individuals or groups seek to alter the existing state system by influencing its legal framework. The book sheds light on the various aspects of shariatisation, including historical narratives, the role of the Mejelis Ulama Indonesia (Indonesian Ulama Council, MUI), ideological shifts, mobilization strategies, regional implementation, and the impact on legal discourse and practice. It underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics and implications of shariatisation in Indonesia, emphasizing the need to critically examine the potential consequences of such a transition. Ultimately, the book provides valuable insights into the ongoing process of shariatisation in Indonesia and its potential implications for the country's legal and political landscape. The Ulama referred to as described in this book are the men of Islamic learning (53).

The author successfully takes readers on a journey that highlights various crucial aspects relating to shariatisation in Indonesia, including the historical context and narratives of Islam in Indonesian society. The book also explores MUI's ideological shifts, particularly the transition away from Pancasila (the state ideology established in 1945 by the Prepatory Committee for Indonesian Independence) since 1975 (when MUI was founded) towards MUI's version of Islam in 2000, as well as the MUI's role in responding to the Indonesian state ideology and the establishment of ulama institutions in Indonesia.

The book provides a profound understanding of how the MUI employs various mobilization strategies to drive shariatisation. For instance, it examines the significant role of fatwas and tawsiyya (recommendations) in shaping laws and practices in Indonesia since 1975. Carefully selected cases of fatwas are presented to demonstrate the influence of the MUI in shaping national legislation, including issues such as takfir (declaring someone as an apostate), religious practices and public morality, proper Islamic/halal lifestyle, and economics in line with Islamic principles.

Moreover, the book delves into the MUI's involvement in electoral politics and the politics of the Muslim community in Indonesia. Readers are guided to understand how the MUI participates in general elections, including the Jakarta gubernatorial elections in 2012 and 2017, as well as the presidential elections in 2014 and 2019. The book highlights the dilemmas faced by the MUI during the presidency of Jokowi, the Indonesian president at that time, and its impact on the MUI as an organization and the process of shariatisation in Indonesia.

The book comprises eight chapters that collectively explore the phenomenon of shariatisation in Indonesia through the lens of the MUI. Chapter 1 introduces the study's context within local and global frameworks, outlines the research methodology, and previews the book's structure. Chapter 2 traces the historical trajectory of sharia in Indonesia, focusing on MUI's response to state ideology and its role in ulama institutionalization. Chapter 3 analyzes preconditions for shariatisation, including shifts in ideology, custodianship of Islamic creed, and MUI's evolving role. Chapter 4 examines how MUI mobilizes resources for shariatisation, encompassing legal, political, and media strategies. Chapter 5 explores regional shariatisation efforts in Aceh, Bulukumba, and Cianjur, covering Sharia-based bylaws and Islamic ethics. Chapter 6 analyzes MUI's discourse through impactful fatwa cases, studying compliance and resistance. Chapter 7 delves into MUI's role in electoral politics and umma (Muslim community) politics during Jokowi's presidency including Jakarta gubernatorial election in 2017 and the general election in 2014, and 2019.

Chapter 8 concludes that MUI's shariatisation efforts persist, reflecting on achievements and potential future directions.

“The Shariatisation of Indonesia: The Politics of the Council of Indonesian Ulama (Majelis Ulama Indonesia, MUI)” is an insightful book that delves into the complex dynamics of Islamic influence and the role of the MUI in shaping the religious landscape and societal norms in Indonesia. While the book offers valuable insights, it is essential to acknowledge certain limitations in its scope and approach.

First, the book primarily focuses on the role of the MUI in the process of shariatisation, often neglecting other significant factors that contribute to the evolving Islamic landscape in Indonesia. The broader socio-political context, historical influences, and the impact of various Islamic organizations beyond MUI could provide a more comprehensive understanding of shariatisation in Indonesia. For example, the influence of puritanical Islamic groups has become increasingly urgent and has colored decision-making at the MUI since 2000.

Secondly, the book's analysis might be susceptible to a potential bias, as it primarily relies on the perspectives and opinions of scholars, experts, and members associated with MUI. This could lead to an incomplete portrayal of the diverse viewpoints within the Indonesian Muslim community, potentially overlooking dissenting voices or alternative interpretations of shariatisation.

Furthermore, the book might not fully capture the nuanced interactions between religion and other socio-cultural aspects within Indonesian society. Shariatisation is a multifaceted process that extends beyond religious institutions, and a more interdisciplinary approach could provide a more holistic perspective on its implications for governance, law, gender relations, and cultural practices.

The temporal scope of the book might also be a limitation. Given the dynamic nature of Indonesian politics and society, the book's analysis could become outdated relatively quickly as new developments and shifts in the socio-political landscape continue to shape the trajectory of shariatisation in the country.

Lastly, while the book highlights the political dimensions of the shariatisation process through MUI, it might not delve deeply into the economic and global influences that could contribute to the changing religious landscape in Indonesia. A more robust exploration of these dimensions, For example, the influence of the political-economic and theocratic policies of major Islamic geopolitical nations such as Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries could enrich the analysis.

In conclusion, The Shariatisation of Indonesia: The Politics of the Council of Indonesian Ulama (MUI) provides a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing shariatisation process led by the MUI in Indonesia. It delves deep into the MUI's efforts to transform the legal framework and practices in Indonesia to align with Islamic principles. However, the author emphasizes that the outcome of this shariatisation process could either solidify or weaken in the future, depending on various influencing factors.

This book is an important and informative work for those interested in the dynamics of shariatisation in Indonesia and the role of the MUI in driving these changes. It offers critical and comprehensive insights into the shariatisation process in Indonesia, inviting readers to gain a deeper understanding of its implications within the legal and political context of the country.