In Banyuwangi, East Java, extraordinary changes were experienced by the AMONG Community (Young People of Blambangan Banyuwangi). This community, which consists of interfaith young men and women from faith-based youth organizations in Banyuwangi Regency, was inaugurated at the end of 2023. Previously, they had successfully carried out a series of activities that had a broad impact on religious harmony in Banyuwangi, including: River Cleaning, Exchange Students, to Cultural Festivals.
Student Exchange opens up space for students to interact and share experiences related to harmony issues discussed with students of different religions, as well as environmental conservation efforts that have been or will be carried out at school and at home. The Student Exchange which was held in March 2023 was attended by 25 students from SMK Muhammadiyah 8 Siliragung and SMA Negeri 1 Pesanggaran.
“Many other schools want their schools to be involved in student exchange. It turns out that other religious teachers really support the environmental approach. Because according to them, the large amount of waste in riverside areas requires joint advocacy,” said Windarti, Regional Manager of Eco Bhinneka Banyuwangi.
The Cultural Festival in July 2023 received appreciation from the Regent of Banyuwangi, who was represented by the Expert Staff of the Ministry of Religion. According to him, interfaith youth need to be pioneers in efforts to maintain religious harmony by packaging it through creative activities. The activity, which was carried out at the Glagahagung Village Hall, was also attended by religious leaders, community leaders, traditional leaders, youth and women across religions and the disabled community.
Apart from that, the AMONG community is also active in meeting religious leaders through visits to places of worship. This has an impact on expanding networks and a shared understanding that Muhammadiyah, through the Eco Bhinneka program, continues to voice the importance of religious communities caring about preserving nature. However, it is still necessary to hold another meeting to discuss and realize what further actions can be carried out together. So that the Eco Bhinneka program can continue through the AMONG community.
