Academics and Religious Figures Urge Public to Maintain Unity to Stop Anarchic Demonstrations
Jakarta, CNN Indonesia — Calls for an end to the anarchic demonstrations are growing from academics and religious figures. They emphasize that freedom of expression is guaranteed by the constitution, but must be exercised peacefully and in accordance with the law to avoid harming the wider community.
University of Indonesia political communications expert Aditya Perdana stated that demonstrations are indeed part of democracy. However, he emphasized that when the expression of aspirations is carried out in a destructive and anarchic manner, the consequences are actually detrimental to the public. “When the methods are destructive and anarchic, they certainly have unintended consequences, including damage to public facilities. Ultimately, the public suffers because they cannot enjoy public facilities,” he said.
According to Aditya, anarchic actions often arise from excessive actions. This, he said, creates distrust among the public. He also considered President Prabowo Subianto’s swift action in inviting religious leaders and community organizations to be the right thing to do. “The President’s swift response was the right thing to do, because this must be handled very seriously and with swift action,” he added.
Aditya also urged public officials to be more careful in their digital communications and to demonstrate empathy for the public. He emphasized, “Today, simply apologizing isn’t enough; concrete action must be taken.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH. Marsudi Syuhud, reminded that religion teaches us how to convey criticism patiently. “We may express our rights, but destroying and looting clearly violates the law, both religious and positive law,” he said.
Marsudi emphasized the importance of protecting public life and property during the demonstration. She also appreciated President Prabowo’s embrace of interfaith figures. “This nation needs unity for development. If we add to this by fighting, it’s clearly better for us to be comfortable and at ease with each other,” she asserted.
Both academics and religious figures hope that this call for peace will serve as a reminder to all parties to convey their aspirations with dignity and without violence, in order to maintain national unity.
