The Relationship between Religious Tolerance and Ethnic Relation Practices among Multi-Ethnic Youth in Malaysia

Abstract

The study aims to examine the level of religious tolerance, the level of practice in ethnic relations and the relationships between religious tolerance and ethnic relation practices among multi-ethnic youth in Malaysia. A total of 500 respondents from ethnic Malays, Chinese and Indians who were in Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, Selangor and Johor were used as samples for this study. The research using the Religious Tolerance Index and Inter-Ethnic Tolerance Behavior questionnaire. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferential using SPSS 24.0. The finding shows that religious tolerance has a moderate association with practices in ethnic relations. The respondents of this study have a high level of religious tolerance, but have a moderate value in practicing the ethnic relations practices. In terms of practicing ethnic relations, the Indians are the strongest people practicing practices in ethnic relations. Meanwhile, in terms of religious tolerance, the Malays are the highest in tolerance with other religions. The implication of this study suggests that the good values inherent in individuals help strengthen the individual religious tolerance. To establish a harmonious relationship between different believers, each individual need to have knowledge of the fundamental principles of other believers while establishing a good and deep relationship between different believers.