In Search of New Social and Spiritual Space: Heritage, Conversion, and Identity of Chinese-Indonesian Muslims

Abstract

This study deals with a number of aspects of the conversion of Chinese Indonesians to Islam. Chinese have since colonial times had a social and economic status distinct from the indigenous Indonesians, and religious difference has reinforced the social boundaries between these groups. Islam is the religion of the indigenous Indonesians, and for a Chinese Indonesian to convert to Islam is a transgressive act that may evoke strong responses on both sides, including rejection by the family of origin. Conversion narratives bring out a wide range of obstacles faced by the individuals who chose this path – but also some unexpected opportunities. Since the fall of the Soeharto regime, the ban on expressions of Chinese culture has been lifted, enabling a resurgence of Chinese cultural activities. Whereas until recently Chinese culture and Muslim culture were perceived to be incompatible and certain prominent Chinese propagated conversion to Islam and cultural assimilation as the royal road to social acceptance, the past decade has been characterized by the cultivation of hybrid Chinese Muslim identities. Previously suppressed narratives of Chinese contributions to Javanese Muslim civilization were rediscovered and celebrated; Islamicized versions of Chinese practices – from traditional healing practices to Chinese New Year celebrations – were developed. For at least some converts, their Chinese background proved to be an asset. Two categories who have been very successful in negotiating their hybrid identities include businessmen and preachers. The former gained prestige and social networks among the indigenous Indonesians; some of the latter were highly successful as cultural brokers and reached leading positions