Center for the Study of Islam and Social Transformation (CISForm)

ers in a plethora of problems among Muslims which were previously undreamed of. This problem is particularly related to the process of secularization that occurs when religion undergoes erosion and eradication as an institution in human society. Within this context, academics are demanded to both demonstrate their concerns and commitments and to work hard to examine and deal with the problems and offer solutions. CISForm positions itself as an interdisciplinary research center that attempts to complement the existing similar institutions in Indonesia, which are concerned with the issues of multiculturalism, inter-faith dialogue and the encounter between Islam and local cultures. CISForm pays a great deal of attention to a variety of social problems that still overshadow a large segment of Indonesian Muslim society, such as poverty, backwardness, and violence. CISForm is also concerned with diverse impacts of rapid social transformation process that frequently marginalizes unfortunate individuals. In addition, CISForm seeks to examine what kind of contribution Islam, as the religion adhered to by the majority of Indonesians, could provide in eliminating and overcoming such problems. CISForm develops programs that result in publication of books, journals, and papers to be accessed by broad academic communities and readers at home and abroad. Such publications would strengthen the position of the State Islamic University Sunan Kalijaga, Yogyakarta, in the academic debates and discourses on the issue of religion and social transformation processes. A deep and comprehensive understanding on the issues would subsequently give a strong base for delivering alternative solutions through various programs of advocating, mentoring, and empowering community. In part of developing programs and activities, CISForm builds a strong cooperation with university-based-research institutions, governmental offices, as well as international foundations. The great attention of the institutions to the current issues in Indonesia would be an important capital of CISForm to build a mutual cooperation.