The study aims to explain the important role of Minangkabau ulamas in the Islamization of the Bugis kingdoms in
South Sulawesi. The historical approach was used in this study where the Heuristic activities were carried out to
collect the main data. Document analysis of books, papers, journals and other relevant writings and interviews with
customary figures were done. The results of the study found that the three ulamas came from Minangkabau and
expertise in their respective fields and spread Islam. Datuk ri Bandang, who lived in Gowa had expertised in the field
of jurisprudence, taught and propagated Islam by using Islamic sharia as its core teaching. Datuk ri Patimang, who
lived in Luwu, had expertise in the field of tawhid, spread Islam by prioritizing the teachings of tawhid. Datuk ri
Tiro, who lived in Tiro, had expertise in the field of Sufism, taught and developed Islam with Sufism teachings. It is
recommended that the involvement of the three ulamas in Islamization in Gowa and Tallo can be seen in the
diversity of the Bugis and Makassar communities.
Keywords: Islamization; Jurisprudence; Minangkabau ulamas; Sufism teaching; Tawhid.