Indonesian Muslim-Islam gap

Indonesian Muslim-Islam gap

From Koran Tempo

Rhoma Irama's warning to Inul Daratista has led to criticisms from many parties. Even former president Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid has come to the defense of Inul and has criticized Rhoma Irama. The association of TV film artists and many other parties have also defended Inul and launched criticisms against Rhoma Irama. What is really going on?

The world is upside-down now. People who are against evil are condemned, while evil acts are defended by all, ranging from clerics to ordinary people.

Clearly, Rhoma Irama is under great pressure today. Only a few people support him in his attempt to rid the country of evil acts. Even the Indonesian Council of Ulemas has done nothing.

Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country. It must be borne in mind that this does not always mean that the majority of Indonesians live according to Islamic values. Things considered compulsory in Islam may be considered strange in society. It is the duty of every Muslim to fight against evil according to his own capacity.

Perhaps it has not yet been reported in the mass media that a senior citizen raped an underage girl after watching Inul's bump- and-grind movement. How many more rape victims must it take before Inul's hysteria dies down?

There is a big gap now between Indonesian Muslims and Islamic teachings. They read the Holy Koran only on certain occasions and keep their Koran as mere decoration. A leader of communal prayers is found only at the mosque or during a recital of the Koran.

Prophet Mohammad was right when he said that "at the end of time, Muslims are found in great number, but they are like the froth of the sea, having no role to play."

AHMAD MUZAKKI Jakarta