Radicalism is an extreme ideology seeking drastic changes in social, political, and religious systems, posing a severe threat to social harmony. Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) play a pivotal role in countering the spread of such ideology. This study aims to examine the perspectives of the leadership at DDI As-Salman Islamic Boarding School in Allakuang Village, Sidenreng Rappang Regency, regarding radicalism, and to analyze their concrete strategies in preventing extremist ideology. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were gathered through observation, in-depth interviews with leadership and educators, and document analysis. The data were analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that the leadership of DDI As-Salman conceptualizes radicalism as an ideological deviation from the authentic teachings of the Qur'an, Hadith, and established social norms. To mitigate radicalism, the institution employs a four-fold strategy: 1. providing positive and constructive guidance to students, 2. integrating religious moderation into the curriculum, 3 deeply instilling the tolerant teachings of Ahlussunnah wal Jamaah (Aswaja), and 4. enforcing rigorous background screening during teacher and mentor recruitment. This study highlights the importance of institutional resilience in rural pesantren to foster moderate Islamic values and prevent ideological infiltration.
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