Mediation and Interreligious Discourse: Prospects and Challenges in Resolving Interreligious Skirmishes in Malaysia

Abstract

Abstract: This article aims to promote mediation as an alternative dispute
resolution mechanism to deal with interreligious skirmishes taking place in
Malaysia. This is in view of the increasing statistics of interreligious disputes
reported in the media. The reason for recommending interreligious mediation
is due to its constructive nature in peacebuilding initiatives and its successful
stories across the globe. The article discusses the potential actors of religious
mediators and their requirements as well as the processes and conditions for a
successful mediation. The article also highlights the need for certified training
to make a credible mediator. Using mainly textual research, the article managed
to gather and analyse the meaning and concept, historical background and the
structure of mediation. Since mediation is new in Malaysia, the article found
that the government’s role is crucial in its institutionalization; hence the article
proposes that the Ministry of National Unity leads the initiative.