Southeast Asian Journal of Islamic Education
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): Southeast Asian Journal of Islamic Education, June 2026

Implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in the Teaching of the Qur’an and Hadith

Aisyah Zahratunnisa (State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu)
A. Markama (State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu)
Andi Anirah (State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu)
Putri Salsabila (State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu)
Melviana Melviana (State Islamic University of Datokarama Palu)



Article Info

Publish Date
26 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in Al-Qur’an Hadith instruction at MTsN 1 Palu City. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with one Al-Qur'an Hadith teacher and three Grade VII students, and documentation review. The data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. Findings reveal that while teachers have adopted the required instructional frameworks, the practical application of differentiated instruction is significantly hindered by large class sizes (40 students per class) and disparities in students' Qur'anic literacy. Teachers address these challenges by conducting remedial sessions outside of school hours, maintaining strict instructional control over digital devices, and fostering mentor-like personal relationships with students. The study concludes that the effectiveness of the Merdeka Curriculum in a madrasa setting depends not only on administrative adherence but also on the teacher’s ability to balance firm classroom management with a humanistic, responsive approach to student needs. These findings offer practical implications for teacher professional development in managing diverse classroom environments.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

SAJIE

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Other

Description

Southeast Asian Journal of Islamic Education accepts unpublished, high quality, and original research manuscripts in English and Arabic related Islamic Education. The journal publishes high quality empirical and theoretical research covering all aspects of Islamic Education. These issues include: ...