ASIA/INDONESIA - Scholars of different religions: "We must urge unity and parliamentary reform"

Jakarta (Agenzia Fides) - "Strengthen the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the State," by stigmatizing violent actions that "create new wounds" and "misleading statements that widen the gap between politics and citizens."
This is what the forum "Interfaith Scholars for National Unity" calls for in a public note sent to Fides, as popular protests, now in their tenth day of demonstrations across the archipelago, continue to persist, and President Prabowo Subianto has deployed the army in the capital, Jakarta (see Fides, 1/9/2025).
The "Interfaith Scholars for National Unity" forum, which includes Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus, notes "with concern and regret the series of events that have hindered the expression of public aspirations, provoking unrest in various regions of the country." These incidents, they affirm, have "damaged the sense of national unity and left deep scars on Indonesia's democratic path." The scholars believe that these events can be "useful lessons" for "reflecting and improving everything for the common good." The mistakes and shortcomings committed should serve as a lesson to prevent their repetition in the future.
The scholars hope that the authorities can "manage the unity and integrity of the Republic of Indonesia," "listen to the aspirations of the people, avoid anarchism and provocative narratives," and "open dialogue, maintain stability, and maintain calm." They also request an intervention in Parliament so that "the people are heard wisely," as "the voice of the people must not be ignored; it must be the basis of all state policy and decision-making," they observe.
"National unity," they recall, "is a noble heritage from our founding fathers, which we must preserve with conscience, love for our homeland, and a spirit of mutual cooperation," they affirm, reiterating the commitment to "keeping Indonesia united, peaceful, and prosperous."
To achieve these goals, the forum emphasizes the urgency of "opening a space for honest and civilized dialogue, promoting mutual forgiveness, and seeking a middle ground that leads to an agreement." Only through dialogue and reconciliation, they affirm, can social harmony be revived.
“We agree on the need for reform so that Parliament can perform its functions more professionally and efficiently. A strong and dignified Parliament is a fundamental pillar for maintaining Indonesian democracy,” the statement concludes.
Religious leaders in the city of Semarang gathered at the bishopric to issue a call for peace. They urged the government to “implement fundamental reforms to achieve true reconciliation and harmony,” prioritizing dialogue over repressive measures. The leaders reiterated their willingness to influence their communities to overcome tensions, stating that “religious leaders and the people of Central Java are ready to join forces to preserve peace and advance the nation.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 3/9/2025)

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