ISLAMIZING THE MALAYSIAN ECONOMY: THE POLITICS BEHIND DEVELOPING A MALAYSIAN SYARIAH ECONOMY

Abstract: Malaysia has developed and is maturing a dual, syariah and conventional economy. This thesis examines the politics behind developing the syariah economy in Malaysia. What were the driving forces making the development of the Malaysian syariah economy a national initiative? And, how and why were these forces involved in developing related laws, regulations, and policies? The aim of this study is to illustrate how, collectively, otherwise distinct events and actions to Islamize Malaysia created a religiously based economic system in Malaysia – one that is modern, political, and runs in parallel with secular political, economic and social administration.