By : Candra G
Christmas and New Year (Nataru) is a special moment that is awaited by many people. However, behind the joy that is usually present, there are challenges to maintain harmony, both in families, communities, and the wider community. The hustle and bustle of preparing various aspects of the celebration often strains relationships between individuals. Therefore, it is important to know how to maintain harmony so that Nataru is not only lively, but also meaningful.
In this case, the government continues to strive to maintain harmony and security throughout Indonesia. Strategic steps are taken to ensure that the celebration runs smoothly, safely, and with a spirit of togetherness, one of which is through an appeal from the Minister of Religion.
The government is also increasing coordination with religious and community leaders to ensure that tolerance between religious communities is maintained. Places of worship, public facilities, and crowded centers are monitored more intensively to create a sense of security for all parties.
The Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Nasaruddin Umar, said that all elements of society are important to maintain harmony and provide support, lakum dinukum waliyadin, differences are beautiful. Maintaining tolerance and unity amidst the diversity of the Indonesian nation is an opportunity to strengthen the values of togetherness and mutual respect in a pluralistic society.
Harmony is the basis of happiness and tranquility, especially during big moments like Christmas and New Year. A harmonious relationship allows all parties to enjoy the celebration without the disturbance of conflict or emotional stress. In addition, maintaining harmony also provides an opportunity to build closer relationships, share affection, and create beautiful memories with loved ones.
Meanwhile, the Kedungwaringin Police together with the Forkopimcam held an Interfaith Coordination Meeting at the Kedungwaringin Police Headquarters Hall which was carried out by various elements of society. Kedungwaringin Police Chief, AKP Aliyani, SH said that all elements of society must foster harmony between religious communities, create social comfort and his party continues to ensure that security is carried out at every place of worship to ensure the smooth running of the Nataru celebration.
The government through various related agencies, such as the TNI, Polri, and Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja, have prepared preventive measures to anticipate potential security disturbances. Operation Candle, which is held every year, is one real form of commitment to maintaining order.
Similarly, Banjarmasin City held a Forkopimda meeting to discuss securing the Nataru celebrations which was not only focused on crowded areas, but also extended to villages.
Regional Secretary of Banjarmasin City, Ikhsan Budiman said Forkopimda issued instructions for securing Nataru. He hopes that with these instructions, Christmas celebrations can run solemnly. Likewise, the New Year celebrations will be lively and safe.
The government together with all elements of society continue to strive to maintain harmony and security throughout Indonesia. Strategic steps are taken to ensure that the celebration runs smoothly, safely, and full of the spirit of togetherness.
Not only the government, the role of society is also very important in maintaining harmony during Nataru. Every individual is expected to play an active role by maintaining an attitude of mutual respect, avoiding provocation, and contributing to creating a conducive atmosphere.
Balangan Regency DPRD member, Saiful Arif said that active community participation is very important to create a safe and conducive atmosphere, especially amidst the crowds and social activities that often color Christmas and New Year celebrations. It is important for the community to remain solid, respect differences, and make this celebration a symbol of unity and peace amidst the various dynamics of life.
Social and cultural activities involving people from various backgrounds are one way to strengthen unity. Interfaith dialogue and mutual cooperation in preparing celebrations can also strengthen a sense of togetherness. By respecting each other’s traditions and celebrations, people can maintain harmony between religious communities in the region. Togetherness in diversity is the main key to maintaining harmony.
Anticipating increased public mobility during Christmas and New Year, the government also appealed to the public to obey traffic rules and use public transportation if possible. The police have prepared traffic engineering at various points prone to congestion to reduce congestion on the highway.
For business actors, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors, it is expected to provide the best service while still complying with safety and health protocols. This is important to maintain the comfort of tourists who come on vacation during Christmas and New Year.
Acting Director General of Land Transportation, Ahmad Yani said the importance of traffic management which includes a one-way system and a tidal flow system ( contra flow ), this is done in order to create a smooth traffic flow so that all people who travel feel comfortable and safe by prioritizing safety.
The Nataru momentum is the right time to reflect on the meaning of unity and togetherness. By working together between the government, society, and various related parties, the Nataru celebration can be an event to strengthen brotherhood amidst the diversity of the nation. Let us maintain this harmony as a real manifestation of our love for our homeland. Happy celebrating Christmas and New Year with peace and joy.
)* The author is a contributor to Jeka Media Institute