Adaptation of muslim students at UPI to the boycott of Israeli products with halal certification: A study of MUI Fatwa No. 83 of 2023

Abstract

Background: The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement has become one of the most widely discussed global phenomena, including in Indonesia. This movement emerged as a form of criticism against Israel's attacks on Gaza, Palestine. In response to the growing momentum of this boycott, the Indonesian Ulema Council (Majelis Ulama Indonesia/MUI) issued a fatwa related to the issue. This fatwa, Number 83 of 2023, provides guidance for Muslims regarding the consumption of products associated with Israel. Methods: This study adopts a qualitative approach using in-depth interviews as the primary method of data collection. A case study design was employed to explore and understand the unique characteristics of the phenomenon in depth and within its real-life context. The focus of the research is on Muslim students at the Indonesia University of Education (UPI), examining their responses and behaviors toward the MUI fatwa. Findings: The results of the interviews indicate that participants responded positively to the MUI fatwa. They actively supported the fatwa by boycotting Israeli products and replacing them with alternatives they perceived as safe and halal. In addition, they made efforts to raise awareness within their communities, encouraging others to also avoid products linked to Israel and to support the boycott movement. Conclusion: The research demonstrates a strong alignment between the MUI fatwa and the ethical and religious values of the participating Muslim students. Their active engagement in the boycott and their advocacy for social awareness reflect a growing sense of religious responsibility and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The study contributes to a better understanding of how religious fatwas influence consumer behavior in the context of global political issues. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study provides original insights into the intersection between religious authority (MUI fatwa) and youth activism in Indonesia, particularly within the university context. It highlights how religious guidance can mobilize social and political actions such as consumer boycotts. The article also adds to the limited academic literature on the local impact of global movements like BDS from a qualitative, youth-based perspective.