Jusuf Kalla and PGI Emphasise Religion's Role as a Peace Agent
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The General Chairman of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia (PGI), Jacky Manuputty, emphasised the importance of maintaining religion’s role as an agent of peace after paying a courtesy visit to Jusuf Kalla (JK) at his residence in South Jakarta on Thursday evening.
The meeting was held in response to the controversy surrounding a lecture by Indonesia’s 10th and 12th Vice President at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), which went viral on social media after being edited by certain parties.
In his statement, Jacky explained that a full understanding of the 43-minute lecture recording reveals a different context from the circulating video clip.
He assessed that the distortion has obscured the substance of the actual message intended to be conveyed.
“When we listen to it in full, we can understand the intent. There may be parts that are misinterpreted or not precise in terminology, but they do not shift the main substance,” said Jacky.
He conveyed that his direct experience in the Maluku conflicts has made him understand how dangerous it is to use religion as a tool for conflict.
According to him, religion-based conflicts such as those that occurred in Ambon and Poso demonstrate extraordinarily destructive impacts.
The meeting was also attended by Din Syamsuddin, who is known to have been involved in the peace process for the conflicts through the Malino Agreement.
Furthermore, Jacky emphasised the importance of strengthening interfaith and national dialogues, from the leadership level to the grassroots community.
He also urged the public not to be easily provoked by unverified information.
“Get used to meeting directly, engaging in dialogue, and seeking clarification. Do not be easily swayed by divisive issues,” he said.
He stated that conflicts should not involve religion as a justification for violent actions.
“It is impossible for humans to conflict and then ask God to get involved in it. That contradicts the noble values of religion,” said Jacky.