Transnational Social Diplomacy of Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah through Non-Formal Education for Children of Indonesian Migrant Workers in Malaysia
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Abstract
The phenomenon of Indonesian labor migration to Malaysia has given rise to complex transnational social dynamics, particularly in relation to limited access to education for the children of migrant workers who do not have official documents. This study aims to analyze the practices of transnational social diplomacy carried out by Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah in the context of education for Indonesian migrant workers' children, by exploring the synergy between soft power and transnationalism approaches. The methods used are descriptive qualitative through interviews, literature reviews, and related policy documents. The analysis was conducted thematically to identify the strategies, actors, and social implications of the implementation of cross-border educational diplomacy. The results of the study show that NU and Muhammadiyah play a role in strengthening Indonesia's image as a moderate and civilized country through value-based educational diplomacy practices. The establishment of community learning institutions, collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy and the Indonesian School in Kuala Lumpur (SIKL), and the adaptation of a contextual curriculum have formed an effective humanitarian diplomacy ecosystem. This diplomacy strengthens Indonesia's moral appeal, builds solidarity between countries, and strengthens Indonesia's moral leadership in the region.
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