Intercultural communication patterns among the management of PMII Sunan Ampel Kediri Commissariat for the 2025/2026 period

Abstract

This research is motivated by the diverse cultural backgrounds of the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) Sunan Ampel Kediri Commissariat for the 2025/2026 period, which has the potential to create dynamics in the organizational communication process. Differences in language, customs, and perspectives between members make intercultural communication a crucial aspect in maintaining organizational harmony. This study aims to analyze intercultural communication patterns and identify supporting and inhibiting factors within the organization. The study used a qualitative approach with a descriptive research type. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation of six administrators from different cultural backgrounds: Javanese, Sundanese, Ambonese, Sumatran, and NTT. Data analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, which includes data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of the study indicate that intercultural communication patterns among administrators consist of three patterns used situationally: a one-way pattern in formal forums such as meetings and cadre development activities, a two-way pattern in discussion and coordination forums, and a multidirectional pattern which is the most dominant pattern and reflects an open, participatory, and democratic organizational culture. Based on Pace and Faules' organizational communication theory and Gudykunst and Kim's intercultural communication model, cultural diversity has been shown to positively influence the dynamics of communication flow. Supporting factors for communication include the use of Indonesian as the language of instruction, mutual respect, tolerance for cultural differences, openness to communication, and cultural adaptability. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include differences in regional languages, differences in verbal and nonverbal communication styles, limitations in digital communication media, cultural stereotypes, and differences in cultural perspectives and values. Thus, intercultural communication in the PMII Sunan Ampel Kediri Commissariat takes place dynamically and adaptively, where cultural diversity is both a strength and a challenge that can be managed by increasing cultural awareness, tolerance, and adaptability of all members.