UIN Bukittinggi Explores Environmental Crisis Through Islamic Ecotheology

Kamis, Januari 01, 2026

BUKITTINGGI – The ecological crisis gripping Sumatra—marked by devastating flash floods and widespread deforestation along the Bukit Barisan mountain range—can no longer be viewed as mere natural disasters. Sjech M. Djamil Djambek State Islamic University (UIN) Bukittinggi is seeking to address these issues at their spiritual roots through the lens of ecotheology.

At a seminar titled Faith, Ecology, and Social Change held on Wednesday (Dec 31, 2025), Prof. Anne M. Gade, an expert in Islamic Studies and Environmental Ethics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, asserted that environmental degradation reflects a crisis of human reason. She proposed ecotheology as an antidote to "anthropocentrism"—the worldview that treats nature solely as a commodity for human use.

"The ecological crisis in Sumatra cannot be solved by scientific data alone," Prof. Gade stated. "There is a transcendental dimension that must be restored."

Citing the Quran (Surah Al-An’am, verse 165), Gade emphasized that the human role as khalifah (steward of the Earth) is not a "blank check" to exploit nature without limits. She further referenced Surah An-Nur, verse 41, regarding cosmic harmony, which describes how all inhabitants of the natural world are in a constant state of worship. From this perspective, deforestation is not just an environmental crime, but a destructive act against the "pure worship" of the universe.

Religious Instruments as Solutions

As a practical solution, Gade encouraged the use of religious financial instruments, such as waqf (Islamic endowments), for the conservation of protected forests and water sources. Under this model, "ecological piety" is transformed into amal jariyah—a continuous charity that provides eternal public benefits.

The discussion, moderated by the Director of UIN Bukittinggi’s Graduate School, Prof. Nunu Burhanuddin, and translated by Dr. Irwandi Nashir, concluded that a truly sustainable system ensures that today's lifestyles do not "steal" the livelihoods of future generations.

Aligning Faith and Local Philosophy

Responding to these insights, the Rector of UIN Bukittinggi, Prof. Silfia Hanani, expressed deep appreciation for Prof. Gade’s contribution, noting that it provides a new horizon for academics in the Minangkabau region. Silfia noted that ecotheology aligns perfectly with the local philosophy of Adat Basandi Syarak, Syarak Basandi Kitabullah (Custom based on Sharia, Sharia based on the Quran).

"UIN Bukittinggi is committed to making ecological piety a core part of our academic identity," Silfia concluded. "Protecting the Earth is not merely a technical matter; it is an act of prostration (sujud) upon a green and living land." 

Source: IO UIN Bukittinggi

Tags : Berita International Kegiatan

Auliyaa Ikrami

Seo Construction

I like to make cool and creative designs. My design stash is always full of refreshing ideas. Feel free to take a look around my Vcard.

• NameAuliyaa Ikrami
• Birthday
• Address
• Emailcontact@example.com
• Phone