NEGOTIATING ISLAM, POWER, AND KINGSHIP: OPU DAENG MANAMBON'S POLITICAL DA'WAH IN EIGHTEENTH-CENTURY MALAY SULTANATES

Abstract

Previous studies on Bugis migration have mainly emphasized political expansion, trade networks, and dynastic formation, while overlooking political da'wah (dakwah siyasah) as an integrated strategy of Islamization and governance. Likewise, Opu Daeng Manambon has largely been portrayed as a historical ruler rather than a political actor who combined Islamic values, diplomacy, and statecraft. This study addresses this gap by examining the political da'wah strategies of Opu Daeng Manambon and his brothers through the Silsilah dan Hikayat Raja-Raja Mempawah, Pontianak, Matan, Sambas, Riau, dan Selangor. Using qualitative research with historical and philological approaches, this study analyzes Malay manuscripts through critical textual interpretation supported by historical sources. The findings reveal that political da'wah operated through three interconnected strategies: diplomacy with Malay rulers, strategic marriage alliances, and moderate political leadership based on consultation and inclusive governance. Rather than imposing Islam through coercion, Opu Daeng Manambon institutionalized Islamic values within political institutions, administrative practices, and intercultural relations, thereby strengthening both political legitimacy and social cohesion in multiethnic Malay societies. This study's originality lies in proposing political da'wah as an integrated framework linking Islamization, political legitimacy, diplomacy, and cultural accommodation in the formation of Malay-Islamic states. The findings contribute to the scholarship on Islamic political thought and Southeast Asian Islam while offering historical insights into moderate governance and intercultural political leadership in plural societies.