The freedom of worship is central to the foundations of any modern nation. All Indonesians must have equal protection under the law if we are to take our rightful place alongside other developed nations. Economic growth alone does not define the true standing of a country. How it treats its citizens, especially the weak, is the true mark of a great nation.
Editorial: Tolerance — the True Test of a Great Nation
Religious tolerance in Indonesia, to a certain extent, is often taken for granted. It is so woven into the social fabric that we rarely think about it.
But recent attacks on religious minorities, such as the Ahmadiyah and Christians, by radical Islamic groups have raised concern among the country’s ruling elite. So much so that there is now active discussion of formulating a new bill on religious tolerance.
Last week, Coordinating Minister for People’s Welfare Agung Laksono, Religious Affairs Minister Suryadharma Ali and Home Affairs Minister Gamawan Fauzi all met with each other and endorsed the bill.
“We need a regulation that contains both conflict prevention and solutions to the problems obstructing religious harmony,” Agung said.
The current draft of the bill regulates various religious rights and obligations such as proselytization, celebrating religious holidays, constructing places of worship, funerals, and religious education.
Categories: Human Rights, Indonesia, Religion