Interfaith Identity Politics in the 2024 Regional Elections in Central Kalimantan: its Impact on Social Cohesion

Abstract

Central Kalimantan as a province inhabited by various ethnic groups (Dayak, Banjar, Javanese, Madura) as well as heterogeneous religious communities, is a fertile ground for the development of interfaith identity politics. This study aims to analyze the phenomenon of interfaith identity politics in the 2024 Regional Elections in Central Kalimantan and its impact on the social cohesion of the community. Using a qualitative approach based on library research, data was collected from primary sources in the form of official documents of the Central Kalimantan Provincial KPU, the results of the Indonesian Poltracking survey, and media reports, as well as secondary sources in the form of journal articles, books, and reports of relevant research institutions. The analysis is carried out through content analysis and critical analysis within the framework  of Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). The results of the study show that the 2024 Regional Elections in Central Kalimantan are colored by the mobilization of dual identities that operate simultaneously on the religious and ethnic dimensions, as reflected in the symbolic composition of the candidates and the pattern of vote distribution that is consistent with the logic of in-group favoritism. The winning pair Agustiar Sabran–Edy Pratowo predominantly utilizes Dayak ethno-cultural identity, while the Willy-Habib pair carries Christian-Islamic cross-faith symbolism. This intensive politicization of identity has the potential to erode trust between communities and threaten social cohesion, especially in the historical context of the 2001 Sampit conflict. This study concludes that strengthening political education based on harmony and stricter regulations on the politicization of SARA is an urgent strategic step in maintaining the social stability of the multiethnic and multireligious people of Central Kalimantan.