Mosque-Based Economic Transformation: Ecosystem Model Analysis Using ANP

Abstract

In addition to serving as places of worship, mosques have the potential to act as centres for empowerment within Muslim communities. Numerous studies have been conducted on the economic empowerment ecosystem of the mosque-based community. However, an integrated analysis involving all relevant stakeholders has yet to be undertaken. This research intends to identify key index variables that should be prioritised for the development of mosque-based economies and to propose a comprehensive design for a mosque economic ecosystem. The ultimate goal is to position mosques as centres of worship and hubs of civilisation. The study employs the Analytic Network Process (ANP) method, considered suitable for addressing the research objectives. Data are collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and interviews, using purposive sampling to select expert informants knowledgeable about the challenges facing mosques in Indonesia. The informants include regulators, practitioners, and academics. Data processing is conducted using the Super Decisions Software. The findings indicate that the digitisation index holds the highest priority, with an approval rate of 34% (0.343), followed by networking (0.299), regulations and policies (0.192), and Da’wah (0.149). Among these aspects, the Da’wah index has the lowest weight in the economic development strategy for mosque-based communities. The establishment of a robust economic ecosystem within mosques has the potential to reduce poverty and foster the economic independence of Muslim communities. This study makes notable managerial and methodological contributions to the field. If mosques are managed optimally, they will become the main instrument in solving these social problems.