This theme aims to explore the relationship between religion, particularly Islam, and globalisation, particularly in its current state of (de)globalisation.
The theme consists of sub topics to be explored. Firstly, to explore how faith and globalization, as a concept, are inter-related in terms of attributes, values, and their respective historical evolution till present. Secondly, the relationship between the principle actors – i.e., states, media, religious actors, is also explored.
There is a greater focus on understanding the role of religious actors, in terms of narrative ownership, identity definition, and civic engagement. Thirdly, the sessions will discuss the creative expressions of Islam and possible ways of being Muslim in diverse cultural milieu, particularly Islam as manifested in Southeast Asia.