NU - Muhammadiyah cooperation

We welcome the meeting between Indonesia's two largest Muslim organizations, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah.

The positive impact of the meeting at NU's headquarters at the beginning of the new year will be felt throughout 2002, as the amicable relationship is intended to make a positive contribution to the people and the nation.

The two social and religious organizations have a combined total of at least 70 million members, not including sympathizers and associated networks.

Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama have agreed to conduct a moral movement to exhibit the peaceful and merciful face of Indonesia's Islam. The vicious side so far has been spurred by the absence of certainties in law enforcement, justice and unity.

However, as stated by the Muhammadiyah chairman, Prof. Syafii Ma'arif, no Muslim should play the role of a judge and kill human beings in the name of God.

The vicious side is also caused by other factors - as indicated by conflicts in several areas - such as: the changes in population composition and socio-economic and socio-political positions.

When these changes, which have produced disharmony and a sense of injustice, were not immediately dealt with, the situation opened up opportunities for third parties to interfere.

-- Kompas, Jakarta