MLKI Applauds Government's Designation of 13 July as Day of Belief in Almighty God as Symbol of Diversity
The Supreme Council for Indonesian Beliefs (MLKI) has expressed its appreciation for the government’s designation of 13 July as the Day of Belief in Almighty God, viewing it as a symbol of diversity in Indonesia. The designation took place at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) in East Jakarta on Monday, 6 July 2026, with Minister of Culture Fadli Zon in attendance.
MLKI Presidium Chairman Naen Soeryono stated that the entire MLKI community across Indonesia conveyed its appreciation for the designation made by the Ministry of Culture. He noted that the government is attentive to all its citizens, including adherents of belief systems. “We extend our deepest gratitude and highest appreciation to the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Professor Dr. Fadli Zon, and all ranks of the Ministry of Culture who have swiftly responded to the aspirations of the Belief Community to have an important day that can be commemorated together as a symbol of unity in diversity,” Soeryono said in his address.
He described the designation of the Day of Belief as a strategic step demonstrating the state’s presence in providing recognition and respect for the rights of the Belief Community as Indonesian citizens. Furthermore, the selection of 13 July was the fruit of the community’s aspirations. “The designation of 13 July is also in line with the aspirations of the Belief Community as it holds historical traces in the nation’s constitutional journey, thus becoming a unifying symbol for the diversity of Belief Communities throughout Indonesia,” he continued.
Soeryono mentioned that the MLKI will soon formulate and implement short-term to long-term programmes to strengthen the existence of the Belief Community. He said the MLKI will build synergy with the government so that the Belief Community can participate in culture, economic development, character education, and social life within society. “We hope that within the next five years, the existence of the Belief Community will be increasingly accepted in the social life of interfaith communities and the general public, and become part of development planning at both central and regional levels,” he stated.
Minister of Culture Fadli Zon designated 13 July as the Day of Belief in Almighty God, stating that this designation is a responsibility derived from the mandate of the law and constitution. Fadli explained that the constitutional mandate is enshrined in Article 32, paragraph 1 of the 1945 Constitution, which states, “The state shall advance Indonesia’s national culture amidst world civilisation by ensuring the freedom of society to preserve and develop its cultural values.” He noted that Law Number 5 of 2017 on the Advancement of Culture also served as one of the legal foundations for the designation decision.
“The designation of the Day of Belief in Almighty God serves as a reminder to all of us that Indonesia is built upon the foundation of diversity, tolerance, and respect for the dignity of every citizen,” Fadli said. “And as was repeatedly mentioned earlier, the state is present to ensure that every citizen has equal space to practise their beliefs, preserve traditions, and pass on noble values to the next generation. The presence of this decree also represents the government’s commitment to serving the fulfilment of rights for belief adherents,” Fadli concluded.