BNPT Involves DPP ICATT in Anti-Radicalism Programme

Makassar (ANTARA) - The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has involved the Central Executive Board of the Middle East Alumni Scholars Association (DPP ICATT) in its anti-radicalism programme.

General Chairman of DPP ICATT, Mallingkai Ilyas, stated in Makassar on Thursday that the organisation’s presence in society aims to deliver tangible impacts, both academically and socially.

Mallingkai Ilyas explained that DPP ICATT was founded in 1989 and serves as an alumni organisation that acts as a platform for intellectual movements, focusing on issues affecting the Muslim community and Islamic studies.

Regarding the anti-radicalism programme, Mallingkai Ilyas, who is also the Head of the Institution Development Team and Interfaith Harmony under the South Sulawesi Ministry of Religious Affairs, said that they have met directly with BNPT representatives and are ready to be involved in the anti-radicalism efforts.

“We have met and coordinated with the BNPT leadership in South Sulawesi as well as the Moderation House to jointly build a peace-loving society without violence. We have also been given space to participate in that anti-radicalism programme,” he said.

Mallingkai stated that they will be given flexibility and involved in the socialisation of anti-radicalism in all educational institutions, from primary to advanced levels.

They are also prepared to provide education and public lectures on anti-radicalism in accordance with Islamic teachings that prohibit using violence as justification.

“Islam is a religion of Rahmatan Lil Alamin, meaning Islam is a religion that brings mercy, compassion, and peace to the entire universe, including humans (regardless of race or religion), animals, plants, and the environment,” he said.

Mallingkai emphasised that the concept of Islam affirms that its teachings aim to realise goodness and welfare for the universe, not just for Muslims alone.