GMS Church Bantul Vows to Finalise Administrative Requirements Promptly

Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS) states it is coordinating with relevant parties to complete administrative requirements for its place of worship permit. “We are continuously coordinating regarding the completion of administrative requirements,” said GMS Central Public Relations Officer Josiah Michael when contacted by reporters on Wednesday (27/5/2026). Josiah added that GMS Bantul is fully prepared to meet all permit requirements and will provide any additional documents if needed.

Previously, a social media post alleging the forced dissolution of a worship service at a church in Sewon, Bantul, by a community organisation had gone viral. The Bantul Regional Unity and Politics Agency (Kesbangpol) confirmed it is taking steps to ensure the situation remains stable.

“Today, I received reports of forced dissolution of worship by GMS Bantul congregation members, allegedly by intolerant elements, including violence,” said Instagram user @davidherson_official, as seen by detikJogja. “Do they forget that the state guarantees the right to worship according to one’s beliefs under Article 29:1&2 of the 1945 Constitution? Please address this and take firm action against intolerant elements @kapolri_indonesia, @pemkabbantul, @kemenag_ri, @polresbantuldiy, @poldajogja.”

Acting Head of Bantul Kesbangpol, Yulius Suharta, confirmed the incident occurred on Sunday (24/5/2026). “Kesbangpol is not merely waiting for reports; when we received information about potential resistance to GMS activities, we coordinated accordingly,” he said on Monday (25/5/2026). Despite preventive efforts, the incident occurred. “We have attempted to anticipate the situation, but the event at the GMS venue did take place,” he added. Kesbangpol will discuss the incident in Panggungharjo, Sewon, Bantul, to maintain public order.