By Yusuf Ali )*
In the current digital era, the threat of terrorism and radicalism is becoming increasingly complex and difficult to anticipate. The internet and social media, which should be a means of spreading positive information and building productive social networks, are often misused by radical groups to spread their extreme ideologies. This situation requires all of us, from the government to the general public, to always be vigilant and proactive in preventing the spread of radical ideas.
The Indonesian government has realized how important efforts to prevent radicalism and terrorism are. One of the concrete steps taken is outreach and education to the public about the dangers of extreme ideology and how to deal with it. As seen in the 121st Indonesian National Army (TNI) Manunggal Village Building (TMMD) activity carried out by the Military District Command (Kodim) 1605/Belu in Malaka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, the government collaborated with various elements, including the police, to provide educating the public about the dangers of radicalism and terrorism. This activity shows the government’s seriousness in dealing with threats that continue to haunt the country’s stability and security.
In a counseling held in the Tniumanu Village Office Hall, Laen Manen District, Malaka Regency, the Commander of Military District (Dandim) 1605/Belu, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Arh Suhardi, ST, emphasized the importance of active community participation in fighting radical ideologies and actions. terrorism. Through this activity, his party invites the community’s active participation to oppose the actions and actions of these two ideologies. He emphasized that all elements of society must be prepared for the threat of terrorism and radicalism.
Steps such as those taken in Malacca Regency are a clear example of how a collaborative approach between government and society can increase awareness and strengthen social resilience against the threat of radical ideology. However, this threat is not only present in physical form or in real activities, but is also hidden behind the screens of the computers and cellphones that we use every day.
In the digital era, radicalization often occurs through content on social media that seems harmless, but actually contains extreme ideologies that can influence the way of thinking and acting, especially among the younger generation. Imam Hanafi, lecturer at the Faculty of Psychology, Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau State Islamic University, in the Spada Pro 2 RRI Pekanbaru program, expressed his concern about the use of social media by young groups who are vulnerable to the influence of digital content that leads to radicalism. Imam explained, in this digital era there are important factors why moderation is important, and there must be mainstreaming of issues in the digital world so that young people can enter the digital space.
Imam reminded that many young people are exposed to readings that conflict with the principles of religious moderation, namely a narrow and intolerant understanding of religion. The biggest challenge in the digital era is how we can filter true information from false, and how we can protect ourselves from the influence of ideologies that can damage peace and harmony between religious communities in Indonesia.
Therefore, religious moderation must be the main focus in digital education, especially for the younger generation who are the main targets for the spread of radical ideology. The public, especially parents and educators, need to continue to remind children and teenagers to always be critical of the information they get on social media. Don’t let them fall into the trap of extreme ideologies that can destroy their future and damage the social order that we have worked so hard to build.
The government cannot work alone in fighting radicalism and terrorism. Strong cooperation is needed between the government, educational institutions, religious organizations and the entire community. Imam Hanafi emphasized that every Indonesian citizen has a role in maintaining religious moderation. Imam also emphasized that all Indonesian people have a role in religious moderation. Because several Muslim countries in the Middle East are currently divided, because they are fighting over countries with their respective ideologies. Indonesia certainly does not want to be involved in this problem.
Indonesia is a country with extraordinary diversity, both in terms of ethnicity, culture and religion. This diversity is our strength, but it can also be a source of conflict if not managed well. Radicalism and terrorism seek to divide by exploiting these differences. Therefore, an attitude of tolerance, respect for differences, and a spirit of unity must continue to be maintained and instilled in every aspect of life, both in the real world and in cyberspace.
The threat of terrorism and radicalism in the digital era is a real and serious challenge for all of us. However, with vigilance, proper education, and close cooperation between the government and society, we can prevent the spread of radical ideology and keep Indonesia peaceful, safe, and united. Let us together protect this country from threats that could destroy the harmony and peace that we have built together.
)* the author is a terrorism observer