The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) urges the public to unite and reject all forms of provocation and unrest
JAKARTA – The wave of demonstrations in several regions has drawn serious attention from religious and political figures, as well as community organizations. They emphasized that expressing aspirations is a constitutional right of citizens, but must be done peacefully to maintain public order and prevent further harm.
The Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Marsudi Syuhud, assessed that the government had demonstrated wisdom by listening to the people’s aspirations. The President opened the door to input from various groups, from religious figures to political party leaders.
“The aspirations of the people expressed in the public sphere will certainly be followed up through mechanisms in the DPR, but must uphold the safety of the lives and honor of the people, security forces, and national leaders,” said KH Marsyudi in an interview on television.
Marsudi emphasized that expressing opinions while maintaining order and respect allows democracy to function healthily and maintain national stability. She cautioned that the loss of life and damage caused by riots would actually harm the people themselves.
Meanwhile, University of Indonesia political observer, Aditya Perdana, emphasized the importance of conveying aspirations according to the provisions.
He also urged the government to accelerate the restoration of public order, in order to prevent further loss of life and wider losses.
“Destructive actions have the potential to harm the wider community, cause material losses and loss of life, and ultimately weaken the national unity that must be maintained,” said Aditya.
Furthermore, Aditya emphasized that criticism must be constructive and beneficial.
“Citizens can still express criticism peacefully and constructively,” he added.
He also advised that public figures who represent the people must be able to maintain their attitude and empathy.
“This way, national unity is maintained, the people are not sacrificed, and the country becomes stronger because it is supported by healthy public participation and responsive governance,” he concluded.
