Policy Strategy for Strengthening Religious Moderation Capacity to Enhance the Role of Religious Instructors as Agents of Moderation in Sub-districts

Abstract

The revitalization policy for the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) aims to transform the institution from a mere marriage registration office into a multipurpose religious service center. However, in Riau Islands Province, the effectiveness of this role is hindered by limited capacity and distribution of Religious Educators as agents of moderation, particularly in the Frontier and Outermost (2T). The analysis in this policy paper employs a qualitative approach supported by various policy and social theories, such as Role Theory, Legitimacy Theory, and Street-Level Bureaucracy Theory. Problem prioritization was conducted using the USG (Urgency, Seriousness, Growth) method. Furthermore, an analysis of three policy alternatives was performed using William N. Dunn’s criteria, which include effectiveness, efficiency, adequacy, equity, responsiveness, and appropriateness. The USG analysis results indicate that the limited capacity of Religious Educators as agents of moderation at the sub-district level received the highest score (14), making it the primary priority to be addressed. Based on the analysis of Dunn’s criteria, the most appropriate policy recommendation is the enactment of a Minister of Religious Affairs Regulation concerning the Performance Evaluation System for Religious Educators Based on Social Impact, which received the highest total score (26). This policy recommends transforming success indicators from administrative reports into real achievements within the community, such as increased tolerance indices and the effectiveness of conflict resolution, integrated directly into the career development mechanisms for educators.