LK3, Institute for the Study of Islam & Society

The Institute for the Study of Islam & Society makes a significant contribution to interreligious dialog in South Kalimantan, which is heavily dominated by Muslims. LK3 was initially founded to promote intellectual social discourse. At the time, there was a lack of an institution that specialized in presenting the connections between Islamic research and teaching and social issues. The LK3 has built up a strong interfaith network with effective public relations work that is recognized by many people and institutions. In addition, LK3 has taken up many social and ecological projects on an interfaith basis. For example, tree planting campaigns, HIV prevention among young adults or income generation for women (in cooperation with the GKE). LK3 has a gender-inclusive approach. It is non-discriminatory, non-profit, non-partisan, non-political and participatory, respects individual human rights and stands up for marginalized people, such as single mothers or women in prison. The institute makes a significant contribution to researching and publicizing the tolerant and mystical underpinnings of the regional Islamic tradition, thereby legitimizing its involvement in the political reform movement. LK3 is an important interlocutor of the GKE in many social issues, with great influence in regional Islamic society. 

As part of its priority programmes, Mission 21 co-finances selected LK3 projects in the areas of interfaith peacebuilding, income generation for women and overcoming sexualized and gender-based violence. The LK3 has built up a strong interfaith network with educational work in Koran schools, courses, youth camps and effective public relations work. In the run-up to elections, debates are held on the importance of religious freedom enshrined in the constitution and the criteria for fair elections. When the radical hardliners of the Islamic Defense Front (Front Pembela Islam, FPI) wanted to establish a new branch in Central Kalimantan, LK3 was able to successfully prevent this together with the GKE and other groups.