MUI calls for strengthening character education to prevent LGBT practices

Bekasi Regency (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Bekasi Regency, West Java, has called for the strengthening of character education as the key to facing various social challenges emerging among the younger generation, including the prevention of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) practices.

“An approach that prioritises dialogue, character education, guidance, and a healthy social environment is more strategic than mere condemnation or stigma,” said the Chairman of MUI Bekasi Regency, KH. Prof. Mahmud, in Cikarang on Thursday.

He stated that families must return to being the primary place for children to receive attention, affection, role models, and a safe space for dialogue. The emotional presence of parents is considered vital amidst social changes and the heavy influence of social media.

According to him, the most strategic solution to LGBT issues is not to increase social conflict, but to strengthen family resilience. Parents need to be emotionally present, not just physically, as children require attention, dialogue, affection, and exemplary figures.

“Schools are expected to not only build academic abilities but also instils responsibility, self-control, social ethics, as well as religious and cultural values,” he added.

He also encouraged religious approaches to be conducted in a friendly and educational manner. Preaching (Dakwah) should serve as a means to guide society towards a better life, rather than merely providing judgement.

“Soothing preaching is often more effective than preaching that only contains anger. The purpose of religion is not merely to judge, but to guide humans towards a better life,” he said.