The Strategic Role of Dayah Ulama in Handling the Covid-19 Pandemic in Aceh: Collaboration, Public Awareness, and Social Solidarity

Abstract

The government is the front guard responsible for breaking the chain of spread of Covid-19. However, multi-stakeholder support and integrated cooperation are needed to break the chain of transmission and spread of Covid-19, including the involvement of ulama figures. Because, in the structure of Acehnese society, ulama occupy a highly respected and revered position. Moreover, the Aceh government considers ulama to be the government's communication link to the community. Therefore, this article aims to understand perceptions and identify the involvement of ulama, both directly and indirectly, in handling Covid-19 in Aceh. The method used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. The database comes from in-depth interviews, participant observation and documentation studies. Meanwhile, technical data analysis uses an inductive approach and is analyzed interactively. The research results show thatThe role of ulama has become crucial in efforts to handle and manage the impact of Covid19 in Aceh. Ulama play an important role in raising public awareness during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through collaboration with the government, ulama participate in socializing government policies down to the grassroots level to suppress the spread of Covid-19. It is not just an appeal but is also involved in disciplining the community regarding health protocols, supporting preventive measures, providing psychological and spiritual support, as well as encouraging social solidarity, and even taking part in the Covid-19 vaccination program. Ulama have helped unite communities in facing the Covid-19 crisis in Aceh

Keywords

• dayah ulama, policy collaboration, handling the covid-19 pandemic, aceh.