Unity of Community Elements is the Key to Success in Eradicating Radicalism
By: Rivka Mayangsari*)
Unity of elements of society is the main key in eradicating radicalism. Eradicating radicalism requires collective and comprehensive efforts from all elements of society. BPIP Control Director, Mukhammad Fahrurozi said that Indonesia is facing various complex issues, ranging from identity politics to corruption and drugs. Intolerant attitudes are the root of the problem of radicalism and terrorism. Continued intolerance can lead to extremism, which is contrary to society’s social values.
Radicalism can arise from various factors, such as economic problems or inadequate education, as well as a lack of understanding of the Pancasila ideology. So the role of the security forces in reducing radicalism and terrorism is very large. This is because terrorism not only harms individuals and society, but also damages public and state facilities.
Head of the Binmas Unit, AKP Ashari Lumuan, in his outreach regarding preventing the spread of intolerance, radicalism and terrorism among the younger generation, said that the younger generation should stay away from radicalism. Don’t let students be influenced by radical ideas, because radical ideas can damage and threaten the life of the nation and state. Moreover, the spread of radicalism is currently widely spread through digital media such as social media, targeting young people, especially students.
Terrorists often have the wrong understanding, considering acts of violence as jihad and a path to heaven, even though it is actually a dangerous deviant act.
Deputy Chair of the Fatwa Commission of the MUI Islamic Ulema Council, Tojo Una Una Mohamad Hamdi, said that Islam is a religion that is a blessing, upholds and cherishes human dignity, both in conditions of peace and in conflict. One of the steps that need to be taken by the nation’s components, especially the younger generation, is to study religion properly and correctly, because misunderstanding or not understanding religious teachings is a gateway to radicalism.
The Chancellor of UIN Alauddin, Prof. H Hamdan Juhannis, appealed to us to act and interpret religion as an aspect of historicity. Understanding religion is not only based on the outside, the symbols used for worship are only skin, the content is a day to get closer to God.
There are three extraordinary crimes in Indonesia, namely drugs, corruption and terrorism. The impact of these three major crimes can damage the integrity and future of the nation and kill human values. No matter how intelligent a person is, if he is addicted, his nature is dangerous. Likewise, extremism, intolerance, terrorism are also doctrines that cause addiction.
Apart from that, Chair of the Anti-Radicalism Young People’s Alliance (AMMAR) for the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Anggit, said that many activities are wrapped in religion but in essence aim to divide society and Muslims, which has the potential to damage the culture and foundations of our country, Pancasila. This has the potential to disrupt and damage harmony between fellow citizens, especially in Indonesia, which highly values tolerance because of its diversity.
AMMAR firmly states its 5 positions, namely first, rejecting and fighting radicalism, terrorism and intolerance which are increasingly developing and camouflaged in the political wing. Second, be alert to the propaganda issue of 100 years of the rise of the caliphate which threatens the ideology of Pancasila and the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
Third, support the government and law enforcement officials to carry out efforts to prevent and take legal action against groups involved in the spread of the transnational ideology of the caliphate, radicalism and terrorism.
Fourth, appeal to the public to strengthen national and religious nationalism within the Pancasila frame in order to maintain conducive security and public order ahead of the simultaneous regional head elections in 2024. And fifth, invite all Yogyakarta people to realize a peaceful, tolerant and inclusive Yogyakarta , anti-caliphate and anti-radicalism.
To prevent the spread of radicalism, a sense of brotherhood between communities is needed. These include increasing mutual respect, strengthening brotherhood, and raising awareness about radicalism.
When elements of society unite, a strong synergy is created that can ward off extreme ideologies and build national resilience. By uniting, we can build a strong fortress that protects the nation from extreme ideologies and creates an Indonesia that is peaceful, prosperous and upholds the values of Pancasila. Let us join hands, shoulder to shoulder, in fighting radicalism and building a brighter future for the nation.
*) Terrorism Observer
