'One thing must be said: God needs no defender'

'One thing must be said: God needs no defender'

As Indonesia hosted last week an Asia-Europe interfaith forum,
bringing together representatives from 39 countries, a group of
people attacked the Indonesian Ahmadiyah Congregation (JAI). None
of the attackers were apprehended, while the authorities banned
the movement. The Jakarta Post asked residents for their comments
on freedom of religion.

Ignatius Erick, 25, is a trainee at a private bank. He lives
in Serpong, Tangerang:

In regards to the attack on the compound of the so-called
heretical JAI, I think there is only one thing to say: God needs
no defender.

Freedom of religious expression correlates with tolerance. In
Indonesia, when we speak of tolerance it is always about the
minority respecting the majority, or anyone who holds power for
that matter.

Why don't we try to reverse the concept?

If it were the majority paying respect to the minority,
instead of always demanding respect, that would show a great deal
more tolerance.

That way, expressing one's faith would never spark unnecessary
violence.

Umi, 17, volunteers for a non-governmental organization. She
lives in Pamulang, Tangerang:

I express what I believe and I think all people have the right
to freedom of expression, regardless of their belief.

And, I have no problem if a person wants to preach that their
way is the only way. However, they should not force others to
follow them.

We have seen cases where religious freedom has been denied,
even in the capital. I think Indonesians need to have a broader
perspective on religious matters.

-- The Jakarta Post