RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE IN MALAYSIA: IDEALISM AND PRACTICE (Keperihalan Toleransi Beragama di Malaysia: Idealisme dan Praktis)

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Malaysia, as a pluralistic nation with a rich historical background, is recognized globally for its ability to maintain religious harmony. This study explores the factors contributing to religious tolerance in Malaysia, the challenges faced by religious communities and strategies to sustain societal stability. Key factors promoting tolerance include the wisdom of leaders, education, social and cultural traditions, the role of religious leaders, and personal experiences. However, challenges persist, such as ignorance, misuse of social media, emotional and political influences, differing educational backgrounds, and variations in religious practices. To address these issues, the study recommends fostering mutual respect among faiths, enhancing education focused on ethical interfaith interactions, disseminating accurate religious information, and enforcing laws that protect community rights while curbing misconduct. A collaborative, balanced approach involving education and enforcement is crucial. Leaders and religious figures play a pivotal role in ensuring that interfaith relations are rooted in knowledge, ethics, and cultural values, aligning with the nation’s aspiration for harmony amidst diversity.

ABSTRAK

Malaysia, sebuah negara majmuk dengan sejarah unik, menjadi model masyarakat antarabangsa atas keupayaannya melestarikan keharmonian beragama. Kajian ini membincangkan faktor toleransi beragama, isu dan cabaran yang dihadapi masyarakat, serta cadangan penambahbaikan untuk memastikan kestabilan sosial. Antara faktor utama toleransi beragama di Malaysia ialah kebijaksanaan pemimpin, pendidikan, tradisi sosial dan budaya, peranan pemimpin agama, serta nilai-nilai murni agama Namun, isu sensitif agama terus menjadi cabaran disebabkan kejahilan masyarakat, media sosial, sentimen emosi dan politik, sistem pendidikan dan kehidupan beragama para penganut agama. Kajian ini mencadangkan agar toleransi beragama diperkukuh melalui sikap saling menghormati, pemerkasaan pendidikan, penyebaran maklumat berkaitan agama dan isu sensitif antara agama, menghindari provokasi dan pemerkasaan undang-undang. Pendekatan seimbang antara pendidikan dan penguatkuasaan memerlukan kerjasama semua pihak, termasuk pemimpin dan pemimpin agama. Usaha ini penting untuk memastikan hubungan antara agama di Malaysia berasaskan nilai ilmu, etika dan budaya setempat, demi mencapai aspirasi keharmonian dalam kepelbagaian.