The Strategy of Moderate Islamic Preaching in Countering Hoaxes and Digital Disinformation

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology and social media has significantly transformed communication patterns in modern society, including the dissemination of religious information and Islamic preaching activities. However, the digital era has also facilitated the widespread circulation of hoaxes, misinformation, hate speech, and digital disinformation that threaten social harmony, religious tolerance, and public trust. This study aims to examine the strategy of moderate Islamic preaching in countering hoaxes and digital disinformation within contemporary society. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach through literature review and contextual analysis of digital communication, Islamic preaching, and media literacy. The findings indicate that moderate Islamic preaching plays an important role in promoting critical thinking, religious moderation, ethical communication, and social responsibility in digital spaces. Strategies such as strengthening digital literacy, promoting tabayyun (verification of information), utilizing social media platforms positively, developing inclusive religious narratives, and encouraging collaborative engagement among religious leaders, educational institutions, and communities are effective in reducing the spread of hoaxes and disinformation. The study also reveals that moderate Islamic values emphasizing tolerance, justice, wisdom, and peaceful communication are highly relevant in addressing digital information challenges in pluralistic societies. However, limited digital literacy, algorithmic polarization, and emotional manipulation remain major obstacles in combating misinformation effectively. Therefore, strengthening moderate Islamic preaching through adaptive digital strategies and ethical communication approaches is essential for fostering responsible digital citizenship and maintaining social harmony in the modern information era.