Religious harmony in Indonesia is not just a jargon, but a necessity that must continue to be maintained and maintained. Considering that Indonesia is a country with extraordinary religious diversity, religious harmony is an important pillar in maintaining stability and peace in society. Moreover, in this era of globalization, challenges to national integrity and unity are increasingly complex, one of which is the threat of radicalism and terrorism. Therefore, religious harmony plays a vital role in preventing the spread of radical ideas and acts of terrorism.
Several important steps have been taken by the government and various elements of society to deal with this problem, one of which is through a seminar held by Baharkam Polri on July 31 2024, which highlighted the importance of overcoming terrorism, radicalism and intolerance.
Brigadier General Muhammad Rudy Syarifudin in his speech explained that a conducive security and public order (Kamtibmas) situation is very important for national development. This can be achieved with synergy between the police, community and other stakeholders, known as the “Three Pillars Plus” consisting of the village head, Babinsa, Bhabinkamtibmas, plus religious leaders, community leaders and youth leaders. Brigadier General Rudy emphasized the importance of sensitivity and active involvement of the community in counter-radical activities to prevent terrorism and radicalism.
Religious moderation is also a focus in this effort. Ahmad Syalabi M.Ag from the Central Java Ministry of Religion emphasized that religious moderation is a religious perspective, attitude and behavior that is moderate, not extreme and balanced. This means understanding and practicing religious teachings without exaggeration and respecting differences in beliefs with people of other religions. The “Religious Moderation” program initiated by the Indonesian Ministry of Religion aims to promote tolerant attitudes and avoid extremism.
Religious harmony is also a concern for local governments. Southeast Sulawesi Regional Secretary, Asrun Lio, in his speech invited all people in Bumi Anoa to work together to fight intolerance, radicalism, terrorism, and stop the spread of hoaxes and SARA issues. The potential for social conflict in the context of the 2024 Pilkada needs to be well anticipated. Regional governments and integrated teams for handling social conflicts have a strategic role in preventing potential social conflicts which could have far-reaching impacts if not handled early.
Efforts to deal with radicalism are also being carried out by the Jempang Police, West Kutai, through intensive patrols and counseling the public so that they are not provoked by news that is not necessarily true. Jempang Police Chief Inspector Sunarto emphasized the importance of maintaining tolerance between religions, tribes, races, ethnicities and cultures and invited the public to immediately report if there were any indications of radicalism in their environment.
In facing this challenge, all elements of society must unite and play an active role. As a pluralistic nation, Indonesia has extraordinary cultural richness and diversity. This diversity must be maintained and cared for properly. There is no place for radicalism and terrorism in Indonesia. Radicalism and terrorism are common enemies that can damage national unity and integrity.
Therefore, people must be more sensitive to the surrounding environment. If there are indications of the emergence of radicalism or acts of terrorism, immediately report it to the authorities. In this case, the public can become the eyes and ears of the security forces, be they the police, TNI, or terrorism and radicalism prevention units.
Apart from that, religious leaders, community leaders and youth leaders have an important role in spreading messages of peace and tolerance. Through recitations, lectures, discussions and other religious activities, religious figures can educate people about the importance of harmony and the dangers of radicalism. Community leaders and youth can also hold activities that promote inter-religious harmony and involve various levels of society in positive activities.
The government also continues to support efforts to counter the spread of radicalism and terrorism by providing facilities and means that support the creation of harmony and security in society. Activities such as seminars, training and anti-radicalism campaigns need to continue to be encouraged. The regional government is also actively coordinating with various parties to prevent potential social conflicts, especially ahead of the 2024 regional elections.
The role of mass media is also no less important. The media has an important role as an agent of change by disseminating correct and educative information. The media can be a means of promoting harmony and peace and avoiding the spread of hoaxes and provocative news that can divide society.
Religious harmony is a valuable asset for Indonesia. Harmony in religion, especially, can be the first bulwark in preventing radicalism and terrorism. By maintaining harmony, we not only fight radicalism and terrorism, but also strengthen national unity and integrity. This is because people who live in harmony will find it more difficult to be provoked by teachings that lead to violence and division. Therefore, every citizen has the responsibility to maintain and maintain harmony.
Countering radicalism and terrorism cannot be done by one party alone. Collaboration is needed between the government, religious leaders, community leaders, educational institutions, the media and all elements of society. All parties must unite in efforts to maintain religious harmony. With good collaboration, society will become stronger and not easily influenced by destructive ideas.
