Islamic Education and Level of Character Internalization of Secondary School Students in Malaysia

Abstract

Islamic Education in Malaysia is a structured system of education with a systematic curriculum and is supported by capable teaching staff who have undergone teacher’s training at government-regulated institutions. Generally, this education system aspires to produce human capital which is holistic, competent and excellent in all aspects of humanity. Lately, however, there has been news displayed in the national newspaper concerning the deterioration in moral character of adolescents, despite the fact that they have undergone this system of education. This article shows the outcome of research on the effectiveness of the Islamic education system among secondary school students in Malaysia. This research is conducted using data collection methodology through questionnaire survey, interview and observation. Research findings show that Islamic education in Malaysia has a good effect on the character formation of students involved. Findings also show that a good level of Islamic knowledge has increased the level of character internalization of students. However, the influence of social environment has made a significant impact at an average level on the level of character internalisation of students.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n4p602