Non-denominational faith
There is a discussion going in the House of Representatives on whether the non-denominational faith, which is popularly called Kepercayaan terhadap Tuhan Yang Maha Esa, should be given the same status as the five official religions in the state guidelines for the period 1998-2003. I think that the 1945 Constitution guarantees it. The principles of Pancasila, which commands respect at home as well as abroad, clearly underscore the "belief in God" and not in any particular religion. I am sure it was very deeply discussed and deliberated by our founding fathers. It was also discussed during the last two state guidelines.
Indonesia is the only country in the world which is religious while having no state religion -- compared to many which are either secular or having one of the five religions as a state religion. The peaceful coexistence of these faiths depends on that deeply religious decision which goes beyond name and forms but upholds the essence of all religions, philosophies and faiths. That was indeed a very great achievement of which Indonesians and Indonesia's friends are proud of. In fact, if we could anticipate the search for a model in the domain of faith (denominational and non-denominational) Indonesia stands unchallenged on the whole globe. Other nations would learn to understand the Indonesian experience.
With the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century, humanity is passing through a critical juncture. Many have called the coming era the era of globalization from which a new world order will be derived. Which order do we want for our children and grandchildren? Let us not forget that when civilizations meet, the one which has more mastery over the physical world (i.e. scientifically and technologically advanced) stands in advantage. History gives us cases of civilizations completely wiped out from the surface of the earth when facing competition (American Indians, Egyptians, Incans, and Mayans).
More recently, colonization and the spread of the culture of consumerism is paralyzing many countries. Only those civilizations and countries whose culture was stronger than that of the invading forces still stands today (Indian, Chinese, and Indonesian cultures are the glaring examples).
Their cultural strength was mostly due to their theoretical and practical philosophies where primordial questions -- such as who am I, where do I come from, where am I going, what is life, what is my place in the universe -- were answered. Language, literature, art, music and scripture were no less important.
If Indonesia is to prosper during this globalization era, we have no choice but to preserve our culture. And the philosophies and practices of the non-denominational faith are deeply rooted in it.
I am sure that the wisdom which guided our leaders in the past is still present today. With full trust we believe that the Kepercayaan terhadap Tuhan Yang Maha Esa will again be given its rightful place in the next state guidelines. Let none forget that our culture is our strength.
IWAN SUDARMANTO
Jakarta