Articles

The Role of Chinese Ethnic Associations in Maintaining Social Harmony in the Cap Go Meh Tradition in Singkawang

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This research examines the role of Chinese ethnic associations in maintaining social harmony within the Cap Go Meh tradition in Singkawang City, offering a novel perspective on community based multicultural integration. Employing a qualitative ethnographic design, the research investigates key concepts of social harmony, interethnic relations, and collaborative cultural practices among Chinese, Malay, and Dayak communities. Data were collected through systematic document analysis of primary and secondary sources, including organizational records, policy documents, and festival reports spanning 2016–2026. The findings indicate that ethnic associations function as pivotal social mediators by institutionalizing cooperation, fostering intercultural dialogue, and reinforcing collective participation. These results underscore the strategic role of community-based cultural institutions in sustaining social cohesion and provide practical insights for managing diversity in plural societies.

Harmonization in Multicultural Community Life

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This study aims to define the interaction and tolerance of Hindus and Muslims in the life of a multicultural society. A socio-cultural approach related to local wisdom is used in this study. The application of qualitative methods with observation and in-depth interviews was used as a means of collecting data and information. Theories about multiculturalism were used to analyze the data. Azra (2007) states that multiculturalism is an understanding of life that puts forward togetherness on the principle of difference, whether religious, political, or ethnic differences. This study found that community life in Serangan Village, South Denpasar District, which consists of six banjars (village community organization) namely Banjar Ponjok, Banjar Tengah, Banjar Kaja, Banjar Peken, Banjar Kawan, and Banjar Dukuh, and an environment called Kampung Bugis Environment goes hand in hand in harmonious situation and condition. This research is expected to strengthen the understanding of multiculturalism for Indonesians who comes from hundreds of ethnicities with multi-variety languages, cultures, customs, traditions, and beliefs. The results of the research are also expected to have contributed to increasing the sense and value of nationalism towards the nation and the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.