MALIKI ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY–Rector of UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, Prof. Dr. Hj. Ilfi Nur Diana, M.Sc., emphasized the important role of Islamic boarding schools in responding to the challenges of the global environmental crisis through active involvement in a just energy transition. This was conveyed in a discussion on Instagram Live entitled "Islamic Boarding Schools Pioneering a Just Energy Transition" on Tuesday, March 17 2026.
The activity organized by the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) together with GreenFaith Indonesia presented Prof. Ilfi as resource person with Dr. Sudarto M. Abukasim, and guided by M. Maghribul Falah. This forum is a space for dialogue that brings together religious perspectives and the sustainable energy transition movement.
In his presentation, Prof. Ilfi emphasized that Islamic boarding schools have a strategic position as centers of change based on religious values. According to the Chancellor of UIN Maliki Malang, the 24-hour Islamic boarding school life system makes it an effective space in forming the character and habits of students, including instilling awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.
"Islamic boarding schools have great power to be pioneers of change. What is taught in Islamic boarding schools, will live and grow in society," said Prof. Ilfi.
Furthermore, Prof. Ilfi explained that the transformation towards eco-Islamic boarding school does not have to start with big steps. Simple practices such as waste management, energy efficiency, and utilization of local potential are considered to be important foundations in building independence and ecological awareness in the Islamic boarding school environment.
According to him, the energy transition is not only related to technical aspects, but is also a moral and spiritual calling. With the strength of values, example and a strong community base, Islamic boarding schools are believed to be able to become a driving force in realizing a just energy transition.
Through this role, Islamic boarding schools are expected to be able to produce a generation that is not only superior religiously, but also has high concern for environmental sustainability and the future of the earth.