Inter-Religious Dialogue Models in Malaysia

Abstract

Over the years, many organizations have involved in the implementation of inter-religious dialogue in Malaysia. However, there are still those who doubt the role and purpose of interreligious dialogue. This might be due to lack of information and understanding regarding the methodology of dialogue and also about different types that it may take. The present study is aimed at exploring a few models of inter-religious dialogue that have been practised by some organizations that actively involved in dialogue. The study focuses on a review of selected organizational or institutional dialogue models such as Center for Civilizational Dialogue (CCD), Students Representative Council of Malaysia Science University (Health Campus) and Inter-faith Spiritual Fellowship (INSaF). This study provides information concerning the various designs of inter-religious dialogue model in Malaysia and proposes that different designs of inter-religious dialogue rely on its different types and goals. It is found that, the commonly practiced type of dialogue in Malaysia is educational type which focuses on exploring inter-religious commonalities as well as differences which consequently will increase understanding and foster meaningful engagement between people of different ethnic and religious background in Malaysia. This type of dialogue is distinguished from conflict resolution types of dialogue which aims at identifying issues and generating action plans to conflicts or disputes.