The International Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS) is held against the backdrop of a world in which religion has been employed both positively (to build social cohesion and religious peace) and negatively (to provide motivation for conflicts, violence and social division). The Conference will make references to religious traditions, historical as well as contemporary experiences to discuss three key areas of faith, identity and cohesion. There is much evidence to show how religious traditions have promoted co-existence and cohesion amidst social diversity; reconciled the tensions that may exist between unique religious identities and a common national identity; and given the assurance that a socially and religiously diverse society can stay together. Perhaps two outcomes can be deliberated at ICCS – the desire to make inter-religious dialogue a habit as well as way of life in Singapore and the aspiration to make Singapore a hub of inter-religious learning in the region.

Original article is published in Malay by Berita Harian.