Jakarta (Antara Bali) -- As Indonesia is a country where a majority
of the population is moderate Muslims, it will never compromise over
any form of radicalism and extremism, President Joko Widodo said here on
Monday.
"As a moderate Muslim country, Indonesia will never
comprise over radicalism and extremism," he emphasized in an exclusive
interview with Antara at the State Palace.
He added that various
approaches must be taken, especially with regard to security in areas
where radicalism could possibly develop.
These measures are a necessity to prevent the spread of the
ideology in the community, which could make the issue latent and more
dangerous, he explained.
"Cultural and security approaches must be taken to deal with areas
considered vulnerable to radicalism. This ideology must not be allowed
to grow," he remarked.
Having mass organizations, moderate Islamic organizations,
non-governmental organizations and communities that teach Islam, which
is tolerant, peace-loving and full of civility in reality, is an
advantage for Indonesia, Jokowi pointed out.
The president further noted that the eradication of misleading
ideologies that are capable of leading to terrorist acts is not the
responsibility of the government alone, but is that of the society as a
whole.
"It is not the governments responsibility alone, but is that of the
community, including moderate Islamic organizations like the NU, as
well. We benefit a lot from their existence. Other countries have faced
difficulties in combating the ideology. We have seen them struggle," he
remarked.
The Indonesian head of state also pointed out that the country has
been viewed by others in the Middle East as one that has been able to
settle problems related to radicalism and extremism with its different
approaches.
"All countries face the issues of radicalism and extremism. Thank
God, we have been seen as a country capable of settling them with
different approaches, which involved both security and cultural
measures," he stated. (WDY)
No Compromise Over Radicalism, President Said
Selasa, 21 April 2015 9:36 WIB