<![CDATA[This study aims to describe the creativity of Islamic Religious Education teachers in improving students’ interest in reading classical Islamic texts (kitab kuning) at MA Madinatul Ulum. The research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted using data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that teacher creativity plays a significant role in enhancing students’ reading interest in kitab kuning. The creative strategies implemented by teachers include combining traditional sorogan methods with group discussions, using contextual examples, providing additional explanations of Arabic language structures, utilizing simple instructional media, and delivering continuous motivation. Students showed positive responses, including increased participation, confidence, and enthusiasm in reading classical texts. Students’ reading interest improved as indicated by higher reading frequency, better learning preparedness, and intrinsic motivation. Supporting factors include teacher competence, a supportive religious school environment, and the relevance of traditional pesantren methods, while inhibiting factors include varying Arabic language abilities, limited instructional time, and lack of modern learning media. The study concludes that teacher creativity is a key factor in improving students’ interest in reading kitab kuning.]]>
