UIII and STTBK Forge Partnership to Strengthen Interfaith Collaboration in Indonesia

August 09, 2024

Cotibutor: Supriyono | Editor: Dadi Darmadi | Photo: Atia Adjani


Depok, August 7, 2024 – In a significant step towards promoting interfaith harmony and collaboration, Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) and Kalvari Baptist Theological College (STTBK) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 7, 2024. The MoU was signed by Prof. Jamhari from UIII and Dr. Stephanas Budiono, Chairman of STTBK, marking a new chapter in their partnership.

STTBK is a theological school established in Jakarta on December 31, 2014, administered under the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. Supported by the Indonesian Kalvari Foundation, and the Kalvari Indonesian Baptist Church, STTBK aims to equip Christian leaders to become more competent in the ministry. 

Read also: Kalvari Baptist Theological College (STTBK) Paid a Visit to UIII

The MoU covers various areas of cooperation, including education and teaching, community service, and research. This agreement follows a visit by STTBK to UIII in 2023, where initial discussions about potential collaboration took place.

Dr. Ang Hardjunadi Sudarma, the founder of STTBK, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among different religious communities in Indonesia. “We need to learn to live together for the sake of the country,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Stephanas Budiono, the current Chairman of STTBK, expressed his long-held hope for collaboration with UIII. “Last year, during my first visit here, we made plans and were united in the belief that Indonesia is one, despite its diverse religions. The reality is that our religions are varied, but our unity in diversity must be evident,” he said. 

Read also: Religious Harmony at UIII Through APTEP Program 2024

Both Dr. Sudarma and Dr. Budiono highlighted the significance of this partnership in promoting tolerance and interfaith understanding. They expressed confidence that this collaboration would grow stronger over time, showcasing Indonesia’s commitment to unity in diversity. 

The partnership between UIII and STTBK signifies a commitment to working together for the betterment of Indonesia, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to create a more inclusive and harmonious society.