Instilling Values, Caring for the Nation: ULM and BDK Hold Socialization of Religious Moderation

Banjarmasin – Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) in collaboration with the Banjarmasin Religious Education and Training Center (BDK) held a Socialization of Strengthening Religious Moderation at the ULM Postgraduate Building, Thursday (6/26/2025). This activity was attended by ULM Banjarmasin students as part of an effort to strengthen the role of the younger generation in maintaining religious harmony and maintaining national diversity.

This socialization presented three main speakers, namely ULM Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmad, S.E., M.Si, National Instructor of Religious Moderation H. Yasir Arafat, M.Pd, and Head of the South Kalimantan Ministry of Religion Regional Office H. Muhammad Tambrin, M.M.Pd. The event was also officially opened by the Head of BDK Banjarmasin and Chair of the Organizing Committee, H. Zarkani, S.Ag., MAP.

In his speech, H. Zarkani said that this activity aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concept of religious moderation, foster an attitude of tolerance and respect for differences, prevent radicalism, and strengthen national commitment among students.

“We hope that this training will be an important provision for ULM students who will enter society, so that they are able to face socio-religious dynamics wisely and constructively,” he said.

The training curriculum is designed for one day or equivalent to 8 hours of training, which includes materials such as the culture of assumptions and building perspectives, the concept of religious moderation, social analysis through the iceberg approach, dissecting keywords for religious moderation, and national insight and identity. All materials are compiled based on technical instructions from the Secretary General of the Ministry of Religion.

ULM Rector, Prof. Dr. Ahmad, in his presentation as well as a resource person, emphasized the importance of understanding religious moderation in national and state life. He expressed his appreciation for the trust of the Ministry of Religion in organizing this activity together with ULM.

“We must continue to uphold the philosophy of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika as the basis of life. Difference is strength, grace, and a stepping stone towards the glory of the nation. We should not differentiate between fellow citizens—whether they are of different ethnicities, religions, or backgrounds. All provide positive energy for the progress of Indonesia, and for us at ULM, for the progress of this campus,” he said.

Prof. Ahmad also emphasized that all students at ULM have the same opportunities and awards, without discrimination, in order to build a harmonious and inclusive future for the nation.

Through this activity, students are expected to not only understand the concept of religious moderation theoretically, but also be able to implement it in everyday social life. In the interactive session, participants were invited to discuss the dynamics of diversity, the potential for social conflict, and strategies for building harmony in a pluralistic society.

This socialization is expected to be the initial part of ongoing development that instills national values, tolerance, and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia through a moderate, wise, and peaceful religious approach.