Catholic Youth in Semarang joined hands with young people of different faiths on Sunday to stress that diversity is not a weakness but a source of strength for Indonesia’s future.
The Semarang City Branch of Catholic Youth took part in the Peace Project organized by Global Peace Youth Indonesia (GPYI) at Hoo Hok Bio Temple.
The interfaith event, themed “One Human Family,” gathered 30 participants from Muslim, Protestant, Catholic, Hindu, Buddhist, and indigenous communities, along with interfaith groups such as Gemapakti.
Medafa Arung Palaga, chairperson of the Catholic Youth Semarang branch, said initiatives like this breathe life into the country’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity).
“Amid today’s challenges, activities like this are an oasis that refreshes and strengthens the spirit of Unity in Diversity. It is also a learning ground for interfaith youth to respect and honor differences,” he said.
GPYI Semarang chairperson Chaerina Pangestika emphasized that mutual respect remains vital as the city grapples with intolerance.
“In the face of intolerance, we believe that mutual respect is the key to building a peaceful and just future, especially in Semarang,” she said.
The program opened with remarks from Andy, Biokong of Hoo Hok Bio Temple, who reminded participants that temples are not only places of worship but also “spaces of dialogue and fraternity.”
The youth then joined a cultural tour of the temple, learning about Confucian architecture and symbols, before taking part in team activities at Gang Baru Market to foster closer ties.
The gathering ended with a dialogue in which participants pledged to help make Semarang a city known for harmony, peace, and tolerance — a model for other regions in Indonesia.
