Nationalist spirit reigns in Ambon

Nationalist spirit reigns in Ambon

The people of Ambon lodged a protest against security authorities for letting the Republic of South Maluku (RMS) flag be hoisted despite the civil emergency administrator's earlier warning to take stern measures against those who raise it.

The protest came from both Muslims and Christians who were previously embroiled in sectarian clashes.

Since the signing of the "Malino II" truce, Ambon has begun to change, with peace prevailing there. The nationalist spirit has been revived and has flourished. Early this week, thousands of people in Ambon bought the Red-and-White flag to be raised on April 25, coinciding with the RMS' 52nd anniversary. This reflects their resistance to the separatist movement.

The truce has no doubt brought about optimism that the religion-based civil war in Ambon has finally ended. The conflicting camps have begun to forgive each other and work hand- in-hand in developing their future.

The people have sided with the Red-and-White flag, which has united their differences for dozens of years. The hope for togetherness shines again in Ambon, which has seen the spirit of murder in the past three years.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta