Communication of the Ministry of Religion in the Implementation of Strengthening the Religious Moderation Program

Abstract

Indonesia's ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity is both a national asset and a challenge in maintaining tolerance and unity. To address this, the Ministry of Religious Affairs implemented the Religious Moderation Strengthening Program as an effort to counter radicalism and foster social harmony. This article aims to analyze the communication strategies of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Manado City in carrying out the program. The study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using Hafied Cangara's communication strategy theory, which emphasizes the selection of communicators, target audiences, message design, and media choice. Data were collected through observation, interviews with ministry officials and religious leaders, and documentation. The findings show that religious counselors, teachers, and community leaders serve as key communicators, with civil servants, students, and the general public as target audiences. Messages were delivered in an educational, persuasive, and contextual manner, while communication channels included face-to-face forums, social media, mass media, and podcasts. This strategy effectively strengthened tolerance, harmony, and moderate attitudes within Manado's multicultural society. The findings contribute to the study of development communication and provide a model that can be applied in other regions to reinforce national unity.