LKiS is an independent and non-profit organization in the form of a Foundation - the LKiS Foundation - with the aim of "realizing a transformative Islamic order that stands for justice and pluralism, based on Indonesianness. LKiS was founded in 1992 - during the New Order era - by Hairus Salim HS and Farid Wajidi and supported by a group of young activists from traditional Islamic culture who conduct intensive discussions and develop thoughts in a more transformative and tolerant direction.The LKiS Foundation also lists its name as the Center for Islamic Studies and Social Transformation.
Grouping and discussing critical issues in the midst of the New Order was really not easy, especially with regard to religion. However, young people in LKiS continue to be active in conducting studies related to Islamic discourse, as well as applying it by advocating for those who are discriminated against and marginalized.
Strategies to amplify their thoughts by expanding networks and media, especially publishing books, bulletins, print and electronic media. A network developed through a community of young people from various backgrounds, Islamic boarding schools, and taklim assemblies. Then also actively advocating with the community and institutions that have concern for the same issue. The main goal of the LKiS activists is to give birth to people with critical, transformative and tolerant minds and thoughts. Through the LKiS Foundation they fully support and maintain Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, with serious efforts to manage differences not to cause division, but rather as an important capital to create joint work for the betterment of the nation and Indonesia.
The activists at the LKiS Foundation strive to continuously position Islam as rahmatan lil alamin, a gift to the universe. All of its activities are carried out with the main objective of promoting peace in diversity, gender equality, and the fulfillment of the basic rights of every human being. These efforts are not easy and full of challenges. Not infrequently his activities get a negative response from a group of people who do not agree, who tend to be intolerant.
Books published by LKiS include: Kazuo Shimogaki, Islamic Left, Between Modernism and Postmodernism (Introduction: Abdurahman Wahid); Caliphate controversy; From Patriarchy Towards Politics of Equality; Designing Indonesia - A Reflection Note on Social Restoration; Islam Versus Democracy; and many more.***