Breaking Barriers in Youth Engagement through Inclusive Mosque Programs

In Perlis, Malaysia, an innovative approach to youth engagement through mosque programs highlights holistic development and community-building, transcending traditional religious education. Programs like the Perkampungan Sunnah, Perlis International Sunnah Convention, and Kem Remaja Kreatif focus on well-rounded personal growth, fostering essential life skills, social responsibility, and strong community ties. These initiatives aim to create engaged, socially responsible individuals, addressing the broader needs of the community. While the Perkampungan Sunnah and International Sunnah Convention have garnered international collaboration from neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei, and Singapore, this presentation will focus on the Kem Remaja Kreatif. By localizing global strategies, the program connects with youth on a deeper level, encouraging them to become active contributors to their communities. Through skill-building workshops and activities, the program empowers young people to break away from stereotypes and engage more meaningfully in communal life. Notably, it has also drawn families into participation, reinforcing a sense of unity and social cohesion. In line with the session theme, "Shared Insights, Diverse Contexts: Global Collaborations in Clinical Sociology," this presentation demonstrates how mosque programs can break down prejudices against Islamic institutions by focusing on inclusive, community-driven development. It also explores the potential for these models to promote further collaboration across countries, offering insights into how global strategies can be adapted locally to create stronger, more supportive communities.