MUI and UI Experts: Healthy Democracy: Criticism and Aspirations Must Be Polite, Peaceful, and Uphold the Law

Jakarta — The Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH. Marsudi Syuhud, along with Aditya Perdana, a political communications expert from the University of Indonesia, agreed that public criticism and aspirations are part of democracy, but must be conveyed politely, peacefully, and in accordance with the law.

KH. Marsudi Syuhud emphasized that religious teachings order people to convey the truth with patience and responsibility.

He explained three forms of patience that must be maintained when conveying criticism to the government, including patience in obeying the law, patience in refraining from prohibited actions, and protecting the safety of lives and public property.

KH. Marsudi also expressed his appreciation for President Prabowo Subianto’s swift action in convening 16 organizations and interfaith figures to defuse the conflict and invite all elements of the nation to unite and build a peaceful Indonesia.

“This nation needs peace and comfort. All aspirations must be expressed in a law-abiding manner to avoid undermining the country’s stability,” said KH. Marsudi in a discussion on a national television station on Tuesday (September 2, 2025).

He added that the MUI is ready to act as a facilitator of dialogue between the government, students, and various elements of society to create constructive communication.

On the same occasion, Aditya Perdana, a political communications expert from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that demonstrations are a constitutionally protected right in a democratic country. However, he cautioned that expressing aspirations must be polite and avoid damaging public facilities to avoid negative impacts on the wider community.

“Anarchy and destruction must not occur. The President has taken swift and appropriate steps to address this situation,” Aditya said.

He also emphasized the importance of government transparency in responding to public demands, as well as the need for dialogue involving various elements, including mass organizations, religious leaders, and social organizations down to the village level.

Aditya said that social media plays a major role in strengthening the critical atmosphere of society, but also carries the risk of spreading hoaxes and misinformation.

“We must be careful in expressing our opinions, especially for public officials, so as not to cause misunderstandings and tension,” said Aditya.

He also emphasized the importance of transparent and fair law enforcement, particularly regarding incidents that result in casualties during demonstrations.

Both figures agreed that Indonesia has great potential to become a modern and civilized nation if all parties are able to communicate openly, listen, and respect each other’s laws and social norms.