COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES OF THE KIAI IN EMPOWERING COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES: A CASE STUDY OF AL AMIN ISLAMIC BOARDING SCHOOL, SUMBERPUCUNG, MALANG

Abstract

A successful communicator requires a strategic communication framework to ensure the message is delivered effectively. This framework necessitates an integration of communication planning with management, executed through approaches that align with situational dynamics, particularly in initiatives that involve broad community participation, such as those undertaken in community-focused pesantren. This study employs a qualitative case study approach to explore this in depth. The findings reveal that the communication pattern utilised by the Kiai in empowering community enterprises at Al Amin Islamic boarding school is guided by the "Seven Pillars of Communication Strategy," inspired by principles in the Al-Fatihah. These include (1) adaptability within the communication process, (2) rationality, (3) linguistic proficiency, (4) clarity, (5) persuasion, (6) careful word choice, and (7) sincere intention. Moreover, the kiai’s communication process is characterised by (1) practical actions addressing diverse challenges, (2) informed by scholarly and emotional maturity, and (3) responsiveness to community needs. The impacts of this communication approach on community business empowerment include (1) character development and student empowerment, (2) reduced miscommunication, and (3) fostering of skilled, independent human resources.