PB Mathla’ul Anwar Supports Government's Firm Stance in Rejecting Israel Houghton
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Chairperson of the Grand Board (PB) of Mathla’ul Anwar, KH Jazkal Juwaini, expressed appreciation and support for the Indonesian government’s firm stance in not granting permission for the Israel Houghton concert alongside Israel & New Breed in Indonesia, and ensuring the rejection of visa applications for the US-based musician.
He stated that the decision to deny the concert permit and reject Israel Houghton’s visa is a step in line with Indonesia’s foreign policy, which consistently supports the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence.
“We appreciate and support the firm stance of the Indonesian Government,” said Jazuli in Jakarta on Tuesday.
According to him, the issue does not concern religion, identity, or an individual’s name. His primary concern is that the event has the potential to become a public activity utilised to convey propaganda or political campaigns that contradict Indonesia’s position on Palestine.
He emphasised that Indonesia maintains a clear stance regarding Palestine, namely supporting the right of the Palestinian people to independence and rejecting any efforts that could be used to build legitimacy or political propaganda for Israel.
“Therefore, when the government perceives the potential for such activities to be exploited for political interests that conflict with Indonesia’s position, the government’s firm action deserves appreciation,” he said.
Furthermore, he assessed that the government’s policy demonstrates that artistic freedom must remain within the corridors of national interest, security, order, and Indonesia’s foreign policy.
He asserted that Indonesia does not take issue with the music, religion, or the freedom of individuals to practice their beliefs. However, Indonesia also possesses national interests and foreign policy principles that must be respected.
“Artistic or religious activities must not be used as an entry point to spread political propaganda that contradicts the stance of the Indonesian nation,” he said.
In his view, support for Palestine is part of Indonesia’s commitment to the principles of independence, justice, and the rejection of colonialism.
He noted that since its inception, the Republic of Indonesia has maintained a strong commitment to the independence of nations still under colonial rule.
“Palestine is one of them. Therefore, Indonesia’s stance in supporting Palestinian independence must remain consistent and must not be weakened by any form of propaganda,” he concluded.