<![CDATA[This study examines the role of Jojao traditional leadership in fostering religious moderation among the Mat Bat indigenous community in West Misool District, Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua. The study is based on the observation that the Mat Bat community comprises Muslim residents in Gamta Village and Protestant Christian residents in Magei Village, who coexist harmoniously within a shared customary system. While previous studies have separately discussed traditional leadership and religious moderation, limited attention has been given to the relationship between indigenous institutions and religious moderation practices in Papua’s multi-religious communities. This study aims to analyze how Jojao leadership contributes to maintaining social harmony and strengthening religious moderation among the Mat Bat people. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving customary leaders, religious leaders, village officials, and community members. The findings reveal that Jojao functions not only as a traditional leader but also as a social mediator who preserves interreligious solidarity, resolves conflicts through deliberation, and maintains inherited communal values. From the perspective of religious moderation, Jojao leadership reflects tolerance, non-violence, commitment to social harmony, and accommodation of local cultural values. This study concludes that the Jojao institution serves as a significant social mechanism for strengthening religious moderation by integrating customary and religious values within the Mat Bat community.]]>
