Implementation Of Total Quality Management In Indonesian Pesantren: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This study mapped the patterns of Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation in Indonesian pesantren (Islamic boarding schools), the ways in which pesantren aligned traditional salaf values with modern quality indicators, the factors that supported and hindered implementation, and its effects on graduate quality and institutional competitiveness. A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020. Twenty-eight records retrieved from Google Scholar, Garuda, and SINTA-indexed journal portals were screened; after duplicates were removed and eligibility was assessed, 14 articles published between 2020 and 2026 were synthesised thematically. Three implementation patterns were identified: principle-based TQM, cycle- and standard-based TQM (PDCA, ISO 21001:2018, and accreditation), and TQM embedded in management functions and pesantren culture. Value alignment took place through the translation of values such as deliberation (musyawarah), trustworthiness (amanah), sincerity (ikhlas), service (khidmah), consistency (istiqamah), excellence (ihsan), and exemplary conduct (uswah) into quality principles, with the al-muhafazhah maxim acting as a filter. The commitment of the kiai and a religious organisational culture were the main enablers, whereas limited funding and facilities, administrative burden, and cultural tension were the main barriers. Reported effects included stakeholder satisfaction, teacher performance, student character, and competitiveness, although quantitative evidence on graduate quality remained very limited.