PEATLAND IN KUBU RAYA REGENCY OF WEST KALIMANTAN (a Contribution to Islamic Ethonomic Theology)

Abstract

In practical terms, peatland has become a problem for the people of Kubu Raya Regency. Its cultivation as either agricultural fields or housing area requires extra work and costs, due to the need to remove the peat beforehand, which is easiest to do by just burning the peat. However, theologically this perspective of peatland as simply a burden is opposed to the message of QS. Ali Imran/3:191, which states that there is no creation of Allah that has no use. This theological standpoint is in agreement with the views of peatland experts. Peatlands not only has economic value as bio-energy materials, but also as a treasure trove of biodiversity, as well as serving as carbon storage and water catchment areas. Thus, this research not only aims to dissect people’s “knowledge gaps” and their complex resistance towards scientifically-based land cultivation, but also to contribute towards Islamic Ethonomics (ethical economics) in the context of proportional (correct and just) treatment of peatlands, which are economic treatments that accommodate social and environmental cost analysis based on Islamic theological arguments, as meant by QS. Ali Imran/3: 191.