Islam a peace-loving religion: Soeharto

Islam a peace-loving religion: Soeharto

JAKARTA (JP): President Soeharto yesterday reminded Moslems
across the world that Islam forbade its followers from insulting
others, let alone resorting to violence.

"We are obliged to use a way that is good as much as
possible," Soeharto said here as he opened the sixth conference
of Ministers of Awqaf (mortmain) and Islamic Affairs of the
Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).

Soeharto said Islam was a peace-loving religion and taught its
followers to promote a life based on the spirit of brotherhood,
compassion and patience.

"In propagating Islamic teachings, the Al Qur'an teaches us to
use good manners," he told delegates from 40 OIC member countries
attending the conference.

The four-day conference is the first of its kind to be held in
Asia.

Soeharto hoped the conference would help restore the image of
Islam which he said has been tarnished by a small band of Moslems
who gave priority to force and not to compassion.

He also said the conference should work to change the
misperception that Moslems emphasized ritual more than social
problems.

In a situation of fast-paced global change, Islam, said
Soeharto, must provide answers to overcome new challenges in
order to take advantage of the opportunities available. He added
that the Islamic community must reinforce its spiritual
foundations and develop its potential.

He added that even though science and technology were
necessary elements of life, they could not solve all problems
existing in society. Thus, there must be a balance between modern
technology and spiritual tenets.

"The application of both science and technology can be
dedicated to the well-being of mankind, and not the opposite for
the creation of destruction and misery," Soeharto urged.
(09/10/prb)