Adaptive Strategies and Creativity of Indonesian Teachers of Arabic in Overcoming Teaching Challenges in Malaysia

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to uncover the adaptive strategies and creativity of Indonesian Arabic teachers in overcoming the challenges of teaching in Malaysia, and to explain how these teachers adapt their pedagogical approaches in the context of cross-cultural education. This study used a qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation of three Indonesian Arabic teachers who had taught at Islamic educational institutions in Malaysia. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model, which includes four stages: (1) data collection, (2) data integration, (3) data condensation, and (4) drawing conclusions. The results show that the success of Indonesian Arabic teachers in Malaysia is determined by three main aspects: (1) intercultural adaptive ability in understanding the local education system and culture, (2) pedagogical creativity in developing learning methods and media that suit the characteristics of Malaysian students, and (3) reflective and collaborative attitudes in building positive relationships with students and colleagues. These findings emphasize the importance of developing adaptive and creative competencies for Arabic teachers who teach in multicultural and cross-national contexts.