Analysis of the Role of the Community and Religious Affairs Division in Building Harmonious Company-Community Relations Amid Ethnic and Cultural Diversity (A Case Study of PT. Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper)

Abstract

The ethnic and cultural diversity in Riau Complex of PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP), with a population of 15,000, 11 ethnic associations, and four religions, requires effective management by the Community and Religious Affairs (CRA) Division. This descriptive qualitative study analyzes CRA's role in 2025, program implementation, and perceptions of 40 informants through in-depth interviews, open-ended questionnaires, participatory observation, and documentation. The study finds that CRA plays a crucial role in religious management, community coordination, neutral mediation, and welfare programs. Its primary functions are delivered through proactive communication and rapid mediation. Programs such as the Cultural Arts Week (92.9% participation) effectively unite individuals across ethnic lines. Respondents' perceptions (100% reporting harmony) indicate significant impacts on tolerance (85%), with associations serving as communication bridges and CRA rated as fair and responsive. These findings underscore the importance of internal approaches such as routine communication and community involvement in promoting harmony. Therefore, the company should sustain, document, and periodically evaluate CRA programs for long-term viability in developing diversity management strategies in the industrial sector.