He is a student of Islamic studies, learning the knowledge since his early education. He graduated from elementary and secondary Islamic schools (madrasa) and continued his education in Islamic studies at three different Islamic universities: the IAIN Surakarta, the IAIN Sunan Kalijaga, and also the LIPIA Jakarta. His Islamic education is extensively broadened by other education and training, including a master's in international studies from the University of Washington, a certificate in community development from McGill University (Canada), and certificates in popular education and advocacy from St.FX University (Canada).