Duration: August 2014 – July 2016
Location: Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi
Partner: Religions for Peace (RFP), Indonesian Interreligious Council (IRC)
Status: Completed
Overview
The Empowering Interfaith Collaboration to Respect and Protect Holy Sites in Indonesia project was an 18-month initiative aimed to strengthen interfaith collaboration to safeguard holy sites and promote mutual respect among religious communities. Implemented in Greater Jakarta, the project combined research, education, media outreach, and dialogue to foster public awareness and policy support for the protection of sacred places across different faiths.
Context
In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed an increase in incidents involving the desecration, forced closure, and destruction of holy sites belonging to various religious groups. These acts of intolerance, often left unaddressed by local authorities, have deepened interreligious tensions and eroded community trust. Holy sites—places central to spiritual identity and cultural heritage—remain vulnerable to conflict and neglect.
Recognizing the urgent need for a collaborative response, Search for Common Ground, in partnership with Religions for Peace and the Indonesian Interreligious Council, launched this initiative to promote dialogue and shared responsibility in protecting holy sites. The project sought to rebuild respect for religious diversity through inclusive education, participatory research, and interfaith partnerships involving teachers, religious leaders, and community members.
Objectives
- Increase public understanding of religious tolerance through mapping and documentation of holy sites in Indonesia.
- Promote respect for holy sites through innovative educational materials, media programming, and community outreach.
- Empower and institutionalize interfaith collaboration to prevent violence and safeguard sacred places.
Key Activities
- Research on local perspectives and practices related to holy site protection.
- Media production and campaigns to raise awareness of the cultural and spiritual significance of holy sites.
- Workshops and capacity-building sessions for teachers and religious leaders on interfaith understanding.
- Multi-stakeholder dialogues to promote collaboration among communities, faith groups, and local authorities in protecting holy sites.
Impact
The project deepened interreligious collaboration and expanded understanding of the importance of protecting sacred spaces as symbols of shared heritage and peace. Through participatory research and educational outreach, it created a network of teachers, community leaders, and faith representatives committed to promoting tolerance and preventing violence.
Media programming and workshops reached thousands of viewers and participants across Greater Jakarta, increasing awareness and empathy among diverse audiences. By encouraging interfaith dialogue and empowering local stakeholders, the initiative helped build a foundation for sustainable cooperation in protecting holy sites and fostering religious harmony in Indonesia.
