Indonesians unite amid racial bigotry
UNITY IN DIVERSITY: Ethnicity, religion and race should be separated from politics
THOUSANDS of Indonesians held a peaceful rally yesterday to promote unity, saying they were worried by signs of growing racial and religious bigotry in the world’s largest Muslim-majority country.
Dressed in red and white shirts, the colours of the Indonesian flag, religious leaders, members of human rights groups, lawmakers and others marched along a central road here.
Some held posters with the national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, which means unity in diversity, while others performed traditional dances.
“This is about diversity, but also unity. We have to separate politics from ethnicity, religion and race,” said Iwan Saputra, 25.
“I want Indonesia to stay united.” Concerns about rising hard-line Islamic sentiment in the country of 250 million people have grown since
police decided on Wednesday to investigate a blasphemy complaint by Muslim groups against the Christian governor of the country’s capital.
More than 100,000 Muslims protested against Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama earlier this month, which saw police firing tear gas and water cannons to quell the protest.
“The economy is growing, infrastructure is being built everywhere. Don’t let all of this be destroyed just because of ego,” said Saidiman Ahmad, an activist with Liberal Islam Network.
Some analysts have said the decision by the police to pursue the case was a blow to democracy as well as diversity. Indonesia recognises six religions and is home to several minority groups that adhere to traditional beliefs.