COMMUNICATION REVOLUTION IN ISLAMIC PREACHING IN THE CITY OF SORONG: A HUMANISTIC APPROACH

The rapid development of communication technology and increasing social diversity have transformed Islamic preaching (da'wah) in Indonesia, requiring preachers to adopt humanistic, inclusive, and persuasive communication. This study examines the communication revolution in Islamic preaching in Sorong City, Southwest Papua, Indonesia, using a qualitative descriptive approach. Conducted from January 2024 to December 2025, the research involved observations of Friday sermons and Ramadan lectures in 100 mosques, complemented by in-depth interviews with 20 respondents comprising ten mosque administrators and ten congregational members from ten selected mosques. The findings indicate that most preachers employed humanistic communication characterized by audience acceptance, contextual explanations, and mastery of religious topics. However, a small number continued to use traditional one-way communication and emotionally charged expressions regarding religious diversity. Congregational members generally appreciated the speakers' knowledge but emphasized the need for continuous training to improve communication skills, audience engagement, and moderation in religious discourse. The study concludes that strengthening humanistic communication and communication competence is essential for promoting inclusive Islamic preaching and fostering peaceful coexistence in multicultural communities such as Sorong City.