The Influence of Muhammad ‘Abduh Towards the Emergence of Fundamentalist-Reformist of Kaum Muda in Tanah Melayu (1900–1930)

Abstract

The emergence of Kaum Muda in Malaya around 1900s was seen as successfully filling the intelectual vacuum by bringing awareness to the Malay community. Malay community that was colonised by the British was seen to be in a backward situation in terms of education and economy, and even from religious understanding. In addition, they were also trapped in the practise of taqlid and elements of bid’ah. Based on the concept of fundamentalism and through qualititave analysis, this study analysises the relationship between fundamentalist-reformist and Muhammad ‘Abduh’s influence on Kaum Muda’s thoughts. The activism of Kaum Muda can be associated with fundamentalist-reformist terminology based on the characteristics presented in Islamic fundamentalisme. From religious understanding, Kaum Muda has the characteristics of being fundamentalists, which is the urge of returning to Quran and Sunnah. In fact, there is no denying that the thought of Kaum Muda was also influenced by Muhammad ‘Abduh based on writings published in al-Imam and al-Ikhwan. In conclusion, Kaum Muda can be associated as fundamentalist-reformist and was influenced by Muhammad ‘Abduh reformism thoughts, especially on the issues of education, women and social revolving the Malays.