The Internalization of Islamic Creed among the Muslim Adolescents in Malaysia

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the stage of the internalization of akidah (Islamic creed) among the Muslim adolescents in Malaysia. The research conceptual framework was based on the principle of akidah formulated based on the Quran, the prophetic tradition and the model of akidah internalization. The framework was linked with the National Education and Islamic Education Philosophy which emphasize on the soul and spiritual peacefulness. The research utilized survey and interview as the data collection methods. All of the data collection instruments were modified by the researchers and validated by panel of experts. The Cronbach Alpha reliability test of the instruments showed a high score of (>0.8). The research utilized the strata random sampling technique. A total of 1520 form four students from 24 Secondary Schools in Malaysia were selected in this study. The data was analyzed in descriptive using mean and standard deviation. Generally, the descriptive analysis findings showed a relatively high level of internalization of akidah, among the Muslim adolescents. In conclusion, the akidah of Muslims adolescents in Malaysia is seen well and under control. There is a good number of adolescents who are practicing akidah and the teachings of Islam. However this belief should be engrained at early age as al-Ghazali’s theory education asserted the importance of the appreciation of akidah to be engrained since childhood. The findings of the study are useful to policy makers in the attempt to strengthen the internalization of akidah among the Muslim adolescents which is in line with the National Education mission and vision.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n6s4p18