Jember – In a meaningful effort to strengthen global Islamic educational ties, Pondok Pesantren Baitul Arqom in Balung, Jember, Indonesia, recently welcomed Professor Mariam Ait Ahmed, the respected director of Markaz Inma’ Lil Abhas Waddirosat Al-Mustaqbaliah, an advanced Islamic research center based in Morocco. This historic visit marks the beginning of an inspiring international collaboration grounded in Islamic values, educational spirit, and mutual admiration.
Prof. Mariam was accompanied by her elder sister and fellow scholar, Ustadzah Lala Zakiya Ait Ahmed, during the visit. Together, they explored the pesantren’s educational environment and were deeply moved by what they saw and experienced.
One of the aspects that especially impressed Prof. Mariam was the pesantren’s commitment to food security. With its sustainable agriculture and community-based food systems, Baitul Arqom exemplifies Islamic principles of kifayah (collective responsibility) and self-reliance. For Prof. Mariam, this approach reflects a powerful model for empowering Muslim communities in both spiritual and practical ways.
Equally striking was the passionate spirit of the students, both santri and santriwati. Prof. Mariam observed their eagerness to learn, their discipline in seeking knowledge, and—perhaps most importantly—their exceptional manners. She was touched by their deep sense of ta’dzim (respect), tawadhu’ (humility), and hurmah (honor and reverence) toward guests and teachers—ethics that lie at the heart of Islamic education.
A deeply emotional moment arose when Prof. Mariam met Bu Nyai Shofiyah Masykur, the spiritual mother and co-leader of the pesantren. “She reminded me so much of our own mother,” Prof. Mariam shared. “Her wisdom, warmth, and strength are truly remarkable.” The encounter highlighted the powerful and nurturing role of Muslim women leaders across cultures and continents.
This collaboration is not merely ceremonial—it sets a foundation for future academic exchange, cross-cultural dialogue, and the development of a global Islamic scholarly network. In a time when unity, compassion, and knowledge are urgently needed, this connection between Indonesia and Morocco stands as a symbol of hope, strength, and shared Islamic identity. (*)
