Religious Moderation and Pluralism of Community Organizations: Challenges and Opportunities in Islamic Higher Education

Abstract

Religious moderation is an important concept in maintaining harmony amidst the diversity of religious thoughts and practices, especially in Islamic higher education environments. The existence of various Islamic mass organizations (ormas) with diverse ideologies, such as Nahdlatul Ulama, Muhammadiyah, and other organizations, presents its own challenges for creating an inclusive and harmonious academic environment. This study aims to examine the challenges and opportunities faced by Islamic higher education institutions in managing differences in mass organizations, as well as how the application of religious moderation can play a role in creating harmony among students. Through a qualitative method with a case study approach, this study found that although ideological differences between mass organizations have the potential to cause polarization and conflict, this diversity can also be a source of intellectual wealth and encourage a more inclusive interfaith discourse. Other opportunities that emerge are increasing tolerance, cooperation between mass organizations, and developing students' delicate aptitudes in managing differences. Thus, Islamic higher education institutions have a strategic role in developing religious moderation through inclusive and dialogical policies, in order to strengthen harmony and build a dynamic and tolerant academic culture.