Building Bridges Between Faiths and Protecting Human Dignity: Interfaith Dialogue Concludes in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru, Malaysia – 21 July 2026

The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, continues to promote dialogue among religious communities as a practical instrument for strengthening peace, mutual understanding, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

The official mission carried out in Malaysia by Father Marco Baragli, Cooperation Advisor to WOS-IPSP, concluded with a meeting at the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple in Johor Bahru. The mission, launched on 23 June 2026, included discussions with representatives of different religious traditions across the country, including Islamic, Buddhist, and Hindu communities, with the objective of encouraging cooperation in support of peaceful coexistence and the protection of vulnerable people.

The final meeting was held with Maheshwara, President and Priest of the Glass Temple, who presented the Hindu perspective on respect, openness, and coexistence among different religious traditions. These principles are reflected in the temple itself, where statues representing figures from several faiths—including Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mother Teresa, and Guru Nanak—are displayed as symbols of mutual respect and spiritual harmony.

During the discussion, Maheshwara explained that the transmission of Hindu values in the Johor region is based primarily on family education, complemented by the work of local temples and spiritual teachers. He also expressed a positive assessment of Malaysia's approach to religious diversity, noting the importance of equal support for places of worship and communities while encouraging individuals to reject a mentality of victimhood and instead contribute responsibly to the common good.

A significant part of the meeting focused on combating human trafficking, one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in the region. Referring to information collected during previous meetings in northern Malaysia, the discussion highlighted concerns regarding cross-border criminal networks and the risks faced by vulnerable people.

Maheshwara reaffirmed Hinduism's clear condemnation of every form of exploitation and emphasized that effective prevention requires strong border controls, rigorous action against criminal organizations, and continuous public awareness. Particular attention, he noted, must be dedicated to women, children, and other vulnerable groups who are frequently targeted through deceptive promises of employment, education, or improved living conditions.

The Glass Temple also presented its own contribution to prevention through weekly educational and community meetings held every Friday. Alongside spiritual guidance, these sessions address practical issues affecting daily life, including fraud prevention, financial awareness, family support, and healthy lifestyles, recognizing that informed and resilient communities are better equipped to resist exploitation.

The mission concluded with Father Marco Baragli announcing the preparation of a comprehensive analytical report summarizing the meetings held throughout Malaysia. The report will be shared with the religious leaders and institutions involved as a basis for strengthening long-term cooperation.

Through initiatives such as this, WOS-IPSP reaffirms its commitment to encouraging constructive dialogue among faith communities, supporting the protection of human dignity, safeguarding the most vulnerable, and promoting international cooperation as essential foundations for lasting peace.

Statement by the Secretary-General of WOS-IPSP

The Secretary-General of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, Ambassador Alfredo Maiolese, expressed his appreciation for the work carried out throughout the mission:

"Dialogue among faith communities is one of the most effective instruments for preventing conflicts, promoting respect for human dignity, and strengthening cooperation among peoples. The mission conducted in Malaysia confirms that sincere engagement between different religious traditions can generate concrete initiatives in support of peace, the protection of fundamental human rights, and the safeguarding of the most vulnerable. WOS-IPSP will continue to support every effort that fosters mutual understanding and contributes to the building of more just, secure, and inclusive societies."