Page 162 - 马佛青55周年特刊

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点 initiatives set the stage for further formalised interfaith discussions in the decades to
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Post-Independence Developments

Following Malaysia’s independence in 1957 and the formation of the Federation
of Malaysia in 1963, the country saw significant political and social changes. The
government, recognising the importance of unity in a diverse society, introduced policies
aimed at addressing racial and religious divisions. The Department of National Unity
(JPN) and the National Muhibbah Council (MMN) were established, and interfaith
dialogue became a tool for fostering national unity, though it was not yet a primary
focus.
During the 1970s, as the rise of Islamic resurgence led to greater emphasis on Islam
in public life, interfaith dialogue gained traction. In 1983, the Malaysian Consultative
Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Taoism (MCCBCHST) was
formed to address concerns from non-Muslim communities. The first formal interfaith
dialogue in Malaysia took place in 1984 under MCCBCHST’s organisation, marking a
milestone in Malaysia’s interfaith efforts.

The 1990s and 2000s: Growth and Challenges

In the 1990s, interfaith dialogue grew further, driven by the increasing involvement
of academic institutions such as the University of Malaya’s Center for Civilisational
Dialogue. The establishment of the Malaysian Interfaith Network (MIN) in 2002 also

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