Community-Driven Initiatives to Enhance Religious Awareness among Migrant Communities in Malaysia, Australia, and South Korea

Abstract

This study explores enhancing religious values in migrant communities, addressing limitations faced by religious preachers. Utilizing a community engagement approach, the research involves qualitative counseling with Muslim organizations in Malaysia, Australia, and South Korea. The program integrates Islamic education within these communities, facilitates online religious consultations, and undergoes rigorous monitoring and evaluation. Findings highlight a notable deficiency in religious propagation, impacting the spiritual development of these migrant groups. To address this, the study presents two key solutions: firstly, embedding religious education within existing organizations in the target countries, leveraging their resources and networks. Secondly, it promotes religious awareness through regular Islamic studies delivered via digital platforms like Zoom. This method aims to enhance religious understanding and consciousness, fostering positive ethical behavior. The research contributes a scalable model for religious education among migrants, emphasizing the effectiveness of technology and community collaboration in propagating religious values.

Keywords:

• Community engagement
• Islamic da’wah
• migrant communities
• migrant workers
• religious knowledge

Acknowledgement

The authors express their sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the completion of this project. Special thanks to our advisors, colleagues, and research participants for their invaluable insights and support throughout the research process. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping this work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Table 1. Demographic and Engagement Metrics of Participants in the Community Engagement Program.

Figure 1. A visual representation of the islamic studies sessions conducted via the zoom meeting application.

Figure 2. An illustration of the online consultation process on religious matters.