Bali festivals showcase interfaith bonding

…………. Pointing to the recent incident where the Islamic Defender’s Front pressured the closure of three Ahmadiyah mosques in West Java, Suratna stated “ We hope the incidents in West Java will not occur in Bali”

Khabar South East Asia:

Bali is famous for its unique religious traditions. Although most of its people are Hindus, it is home to residents of diverse faiths.

According to data from the Religious Affairs Ministry in Denpasar, 3.2 million Hindus live side by side in Bali with 348,617 Muslims, 41,799 Christians, 33,233 alinese Hindus have already celebrated two major religious events this year: Nyepi and Galungan — each providing an opportunity for the island’s residents to display interfaith tolerance and friendship.

Decorated Offerings at Nyepi (Festival of Silence) and Galungan (visit of ancestral spirits)

“Thanks to all non-Hindu residents who have given the opportunity to all Hindus on the island to perform Catur Brata Penyepian,” said Ida Bagus Wiyana, chairman of Bali’s Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB), referring to the four abstentions of Nyepi, the Hindu day of silence. “It has proven that tolerance and a sense of togetherness exist in Bali.”

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