Semarang, on 21 October 2021, Department of International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, successfully held an international community service activity, in the form of a webinar, titled “Enhancing Tolerance in International Community: A Comparative Discourse of Islam in Indonesia and Japan”. This online event was carried out in partnership with Keio University’s Faculty of Policy Management and aimed to foster greater understanding and tolerance between cultures, particularly focusing on the differences in Islamic practice in Indonesia and Japan.

Taking place in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the service activities transitioned to an online format, ensuring participants from both Indonesia and international communities could take part. The webinar addressed key topics surrounding the role of Islam in both countries, highlighting cultural practices and the societal impact of Islam in predominantly Muslim Indonesia compared to the minority Muslim population in Japan. It offered valuable insights into multiculturalism and the need for promoting tolerance in increasingly diverse societies.

The activity featured discussions on various aspects of Islamic life in both nations. For instance, Indonesia, with over 230 million Muslims, integrates Islamic values deeply into its culture, from religious holidays to social practices. In contrast, Japan’s Muslim population, consisting primarily of immigrants and converts, faces unique challenges in maintaining their religious practices in a society where Islam is a minority religion.

The primary goal of this community service was to build awareness and enhance understanding among students about cultural and religious diversity, contributing to global peace and reducing religious and ethnic conflicts. This event successfully gathered participants who actively engaged in the discussion, further reinforcing the importance of fostering a peaceful global society based on respect and tolerance.

A key output of this service activity was an educational video, which is now available on the official YouTube platform of the Department of International Relations, Universitas Diponegoro. This video serves as an ongoing educational resource for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge about the comparative aspects of Islam in Indonesia and Japan, as well as broader discussions on multiculturalism and tolerance.

This international community service activity reflects the commitment of Universitas Diponegoro’s Department of International Relations to contribute positively to the global community through education and cross-cultural engagement.