East Java Community Elements Declare Peace to Prevent Polarisation

A number of community organisations, youth elements, and students in East Java have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Joint Commitment. This strategic step was taken to ensure the East Java region remains safe, peaceful, and conducive. The declaration was part of a National Dialogue event themed ‘Nurturing Unity in Diversity, Strengthening National Unity Amidst Polarisation and Digital Space’, which took place in Surabaya on Monday. Several regional officials and key figures attended the agenda, including East Java Police Chief Inspector General Nanang Avianto, East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa, Pangdam V/Brawijaya Major General Rudy Saladin, Head of the East Java National Unity and Political Agency Eddy Supriyanto, Chairman of the East Java Regional People’s Representative Council Musyafak Rouf, and Chairman of the East Java Interfaith Harmony Forum A. Hamid Syarif. Representatives from the Indonesian Journalists Association East Java, GP Ansor East Java, the East Java Indonesian Ulema Council, and various student and youth organisations were also present. Inspector General Nanang expressed his highest appreciation to all community elements for their synergy in maintaining public security and order. He firmly denied circulating rumours regarding potential unrest in East Java ahead of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia on 17 August. Nanang confirmed that the situation in the East Java region is completely safe and under control. He also urged organisational leaders to always prioritise orderly and democratic conduct in every activity. Governor Khofifah emphasised that efforts to maintain national unity must not only focus on the physical realm but also extend to the digital space, especially since East Java’s digital accessibility rate of 83.41% is higher than the national average. She added that differences of opinion are normal in a democracy, as long as they are managed wisely and do not lead to hostility. The symbolic signing of the memorandum of understanding was carried out by the East Java Police Chief, the Governor, the Pangdam V/Brawijaya, and several community organisation leaders.