By : Gavin Asadit )*
As the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, Indonesia has long been an example for other countries in maintaining harmony between religious communities. However, the threat of radicalism and the caliphate movement which threatens the security and stability of this country should continue to be watched out for because in its development radical groups carrying out acts of terror have become more structured and dynamic. Therefore, it is important for all of us to maintain our shared commitment in rejecting radicalism and the caliphate movement in Indonesia.
Radicalism, in this context, refers to extreme and extremist beliefs or actions, which are contrary to the values of democracy, tolerance and religious freedom. Radical movements can threaten the integrity of the country and disrupt peace. Meanwhile, the caliphate movement is an attempt to establish a state based on strict Islamic law, which rejects the principles of democracy and individual freedom.
It is important to understand that radicalism and the caliphate movement are not representations of the true teachings of Islam. Islam is a religion that teaches peace, tolerance and respect for human rights. However, radical groups have manipulated these religious teachings to justify their violent and intolerant actions.
Chairman of the Banten Terrorism Prevention Coordination Forum (FKPT), KH. Amas Tajudin said that supporters of the caliphate often use demonstrations defending Palestine to spread their teachings in Banten. The teachings of the caliphate which are accompanied by demonstrations in Banten Province by supporters of the caliphate should be watched out for. Meanwhile, the General Chairperson of the Banten MUI, KH. TB Hamdi Ma’ani Rusydi invites all parties to reject all caliphate systems and continue to maintain peace.
To maintain our shared commitment to rejecting radicalism and the caliphate movement in Indonesia, there are several steps that can be taken. First, it is important to involve all of society, including religious leaders, academics and civil society, in open dialogue and discussion about the threat of radicalism. This will help increase awareness and understanding of the dangers faced by the country. In addition, community involvement in building networks, promoting interfaith and cultural dialogue, and empowering individuals to understand differences and resolve conflicts peacefully are also key steps in fighting radicalism.
Apart from that, education is key in fighting radicalism and the caliphate movement. Education that promotes democratic values, tolerance and religious freedom must be strengthened at all levels of education. Teachers and lecturers must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and deal with signs of radicalism among pupils and students.
Meanwhile, the Director of Prevention at the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT), Brigadier General Pol. R. Ahmad Nurwakhid said that all elements of education must remain alert to the existence of radical groups who continue to try to pit themselves against each other and divide the nation and increase attitudes of religious intolerance. The government plays an important role in ensuring that there is a curriculum that includes a correct understanding of the nation’s religion, culture and history. The education provided must be based on the values of justice, equality and peace.
Furthermore, it is important to strengthen cooperation with other countries in fighting radicalism and the caliphate movement. Indonesia must cooperate with neighboring countries and international partners in exchanging information and intelligence, as well as in developing effective strategies to counter this threat. This collaboration can also involve providing technical and financial assistance to strengthen the country’s capacity to fight radicalism.
Apart from that, the government must also take concrete steps to crack down on radical groups and the caliphate movement that threaten state security. Existing laws and regulations must be strengthened, and law enforcement must be strictly enforced against individuals or groups involved in radical activities. At the same time, rehabilitation and deradicalization efforts must be stepped up to help members of radical groups return to society in a constructive way.
Maintaining a shared commitment to reject radicalism and the caliphate movement in Indonesia is not an easy task. It requires cooperation from all parties, including government, society and individuals. However, with the right steps, we can ensure that Indonesia remains a country that adheres to the values of democracy, tolerance and religious freedom.
Facing the threat of radicalism and the caliphate movement, we must remember that Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. We must separate true religious teachings from manipulation carried out by radical groups. By understanding and promoting true Islamic values, we can maintain the integrity of the country and build an inclusive and harmonious society.
In conclusion, maintaining a shared commitment in rejecting radicalism and the caliphate movement in Indonesia is an important task for all of us. By involving the whole of society, strengthening education, increasing international cooperation, and taking concrete steps to crack down on radical groups, we can protect the security and stability of this country. Let us unite in rejecting radicalism and the caliphate movement, and building a strong, tolerant and democratic Indonesia.
)* The author is an observer of social and community problems