Gowa, October 2024 – Sandra Dewi Dahlan, M.A., and Waode Surya Dharmadali, M.Hum., lecturers from the English Language and Literature Program at UIN Alauddin Makassar, were selected as facilitators at the "Orientation for Religious Moderation Pioneers," organized by the Southeast Sulawesi Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The event took place from October 1-4, 2024, at the Plaza Kubra Hotel in Kendari.
The orientation was attended by a diverse group of participants, including religious counselors, millennials, and women, with the primary objective of fostering and strengthening religious moderation within the community. Sandra Dewi Dahlan and Waode Surya Dharmadali led sessions focusing on the significance of religious moderation in promoting harmony and tolerance among Indonesia’s multi-faith society.
In his opening address, the Head of the Southeast Sulawesi Ministry of Religious Affairs highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader government effort to enhance understanding and implementation of religious moderation, especially in the region. "We hope that participants will become pioneers and agents of change, carrying the spirit of moderation to their respective communities," stated the event organizers.
The participants enthusiastically engaged with the material presented by the UIN Alauddin Makassar lecturers, gaining not only theoretical insights but also participating in interactive discussions designed to deepen their understanding of religious moderation.
This workshop is expected to have a positive impact on strengthening interfaith harmony in Southeast Sulawesi, with active contributions from millennials, religious counselors, and women as agents of change within their communities.