This land, Indonesia, was born with a wealth of racial, cultural, ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity. Among these, Sukoreno stands as a miniature representation of Indonesia itself. Situated to the south of Jember Regency in East Java, this village boasts a unique history.
Originally named Gumuk Lengar, derived from a hill called Padas frequently visited by people digging for stones, the village underwent a transformation when an artifact was discovered beneath a Suko or Suko flower tree, known for its four-colored blossoms. Following this discovery, the village was renamed Sukoreno, signifying diverse pleasures.
The hallmark of this village lies in its diversity of religions, beliefs, and cultures. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) in Jember Regency, as of 2020, the religious demographics comprised 7,152 Muslims, 35 Protestant Christians, 110 Catholics, 124 Hindus, 70 followers of the Sapta Darma belief system, and 25 adherents of the True Knowledge Belief system.
Remarkably, the coexistence of diverse faiths does not diminish the solidarity and spirit of tolerance among them. Evidence of this lies in the seamless coexistence of places of worship. Mosques, churches, and temples stand within approximately two hundred meters of each other.
What makes this village even more captivating is the communal effort invested in constructing these places of worship. For instance, during the construction of a Sapta Darma house of worship, many Muslim residents actively participated, even contributing to the establishment of the Candi Busana sanctuary (the local term for the Sapta Darma place of worship).
Similarly, during funerals of Sapta Darma followers, Muslim community members pay their respects to the deceased and accompany them to the cemetery. At times, local residents, particularly Muslims, guided by Muslim religious leaders, are invited to lead prayers for the departed followers of Sapta Darma.