ABSTRACT
This study investigates the development of Al-Khairaat Islamic boarding school (pesantren), one of the largest pesantrens established by the ḥadhramī Islamic community in Central Sulawesi. It focuses on two key resource segments: the acculturation of ḥadhramī traditions and the influence of ḥabāib leadership within the pesantren. A qualitative method with an ethnographic approach was employed in the analysis. The findings reveal that Al-Khairaat's development is deeply rooted in its openness to local contexts, enabling the acculturation of ḥadhramī Islamic traditions within the institution. An awareness of egalitarianism among ethnic groups has fostered interest and active participation from the local community, facilitating the pesantren's expansion into rural areas. This openness contrasts with the general ḥadhramī tradition, which tends to maintain its original cultural characteristics. Additionally, the public's perception of the ḥabāib as religious aristocrats and descendants of the Prophet, worthy of veneration, creates a worldview in which educational responsibilities are viewed not only normatively but also theologically as a divine command to attain blessings. This study highlights that cultural openness and charismatic leadership play vital roles in institutional development. These findings align with two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education, and fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
