In the last two decades, the development of Islamic economics in Indonesia has shown progressive dynamics, both in terms of regulations, Islamic financial institutions, and strengthening public literacy. However, structural and paradigmatic challenges are still a homework that needs to be addressed strategically and sustainably. In this context, the role of the Indonesian Association of Islamic Economists (IAEI) is crucial, especially as a node of academics, regulators, and practitioners in overseeing the direction of national Islamic economic transformation.
IAEI, as a scientific and professional organization, has played an important role in formulating discourse, drafting policy frameworks, and encouraging the development of human resource capacity in Islamic economics. However, the complexity of global challenges, the acceleration of digitalization, and the need for an economic model that is inclusive and socially just, require IAEI to make a strategic reorientation in its role and contribution.
The new era of IAEI must be characterized by strengthening its position as a knowledge hub for Islamic economics in Indonesia. This requires a shift from a normative approach to a transformative approach based on empirical research, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and active involvement in public policy making. The transformation of Islamic economics can no longer rely solely on aspects of Islamic banking and finance, but must extend to productive sectors, such as halal MSMEs, productive zakat and waqf, sharia-based digital economy, and integration of maqashid sharia principles in national economic governance.
In this case, IAEI needs to reaffirm its strategic position through three main pillars. First, strengthening the epistemology and methodology of Islamic economics that is contextual and applicable; second, increasing the capacity of Islamic economic cadres and researchers with global standards; and third, policy advocacy based on data and community needs. The three pillars must be carried out in a collaborative framework between universities, Islamic financial institutions, regulators, and the halal industry sector at large.
Furthermore, the transformation of an inclusive Islamic economy also requires a strategy to mainstream Islamic values in national development. In this regard, IAEI has a unique position to bridge between academic idealism and the reality of public policy. IAEI's active role in various national and international forums must also be utilized to build strategic networks that strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia's Islamic economy globally.
Thus, the reorientation of IAEI in the new era is not merely an organizational structural change, but an ideological and strategic commitment to ensure that Islamic economics is present as a real alternative for development that is fair, sustainable, and oriented towards the welfare of the people. The transformation of Indonesia's Islamic economy can only be achieved if it is supported by a solid scientific and policy ecosystem, and this is where IAEI is required to take a central role as a catalyst for change.
