Perceived Interreligious Tolerance

This study explores the interplay of social cohesion and conflict management theories in evaluating the role of interreligious tolerance in fostering communal harmony within Malaysia’s multicultural society. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), it examines the influence of social inclusion & diversity, cross-group empathy, and collective efficacy on communal harmony, alongside the moderating role of conflict management strategies. Based on responses from 327 individuals of diverse religious backgrounds in Selangor, the findings indicate that social inclusion and cross-group empathy significantly enhance harmony, while the effects of collective efficacy are nuanced. The interaction between conflict management and tolerance yields both positive and complex outcomes. Emphasizing the importance of education, policy, and community engagement, the study contributes to understanding the psychological and social factors underpinning harmony. It advances theoretical frameworks on social cohesion and conflict management, offering insights into promoting interreligious understanding in Malaysia’s diverse context.