Penang, Malaysia — In a bid to foster peace and understanding across Southeast Asia, the International Dialogue Centre - KAICIID and the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR) will bring together over 25 government officials for a second annual Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (IRD/ICD) training in Penang, Malaysia, from November 11-15, 2024. Building on the previous year’s success in Bangkok, this initiative highlights the crucial role of dialogue in bridging cultural divides and enhancing peace efforts in a region marked by its diversity.

The training, set against the historic and multicultural backdrop of Penang, will support ASEAN officials’ capacity to understand and apply IRD/ICD in their day-to-day official duties. “The training provided contextualized insights on trends and best practices of dialogue, by the experts and practitioners. The learning was immersive and provided practical application of knowledge and expertise.” Said Izhar, a participant from the training in Bangkok from Singapore Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY).  Sanjay from Malaysia confessed that he has applied the techniques learned in Bangkok to help people understand the importance of involving women in humanitarian work, aligning with Malaysia’s theme of inclusivity for its upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship.

The five-day event builds on last year’s modules, which introduced 26 ASEAN officials to the methods of dialogue, conflict transformation, and intercultural conflict management. Participants will engage in various hands-on exercises, including non-violent communication role-play, group dialogue simulations, and site visits to Penang’s historic landmarks, like Kapitan Keling Mosque and St. George’s Church, for an immersive understanding of the city’s interfaith heritage.

Professor Baybado from the Philippines, one of the key trainers in Bangkok and in Penang, noted the comprehensive impact of the training: “The program gives officials the tools and sensitivity to engage with religious communities effectively and respectfully. It’s about equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to navigate complex intercultural settings, helping them shape policies that respect religious sensitivities.”

With the anticipated signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KAICIID and ASEAN-IPR, this training further cements a partnership focused on strengthening peace in Southeast Asia through the power of dialogue. This joint initiative, driven by KAICIID’s mission of fostering interreligious dialogue and ASEAN-IPR’s contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 16, which champions peace, justice, and strong institutions. As Southeast Asian officials apply their training to their national contexts, they help pave the way for lasting peace and resilience across the region.