PITI Chairman Warns Indonesia to Avoid Polarisation from Middle East Conflict Effects

The world is currently in a worrying “warming” phase. Geopolitical tensions and conflicts between nations, particularly in the Middle East, are not merely news on screens but rather a reality that carries the risk of polarisation reaching the grassroots level in Indonesia.

Amid the hustle and bustle of worldly interests that often create division, Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 H serve as a moral anchor to draw us back to the essence of humanity.

This was expressed by social observer and Chairman of the Indonesian Chinese Muslim Association (PITI), Serian Wijatno in Jakarta, in a statement released on Sunday (15/3/2026).

He viewed the nation’s brotherhood as being frequently tested when global issues are drawn into the domestic sphere for identity-related interests.

“We must be vigilant so that our sympathy towards global dynamics does not transform into antipathy towards our own compatriots due to differences in perspective,” he said.

As a diverse nation, he continued, Indonesia possesses substantial social capital known as ukhuwah wathaniyah (national brotherhood).

For this reason, he reminded that emphasis needs to be placed on all citizens that national stability is a non-negotiable value that cannot be exchanged for sentiment regarding foreign conflicts.

He expressed concern that heated global dynamics often bring a “virus” of polarisation through disinformation and hate narratives.

“If we do not strengthen our bonds as one nation, then our energy will be exhausted by internal conflict, whilst the world continues to advance with its challenges,” said this member of the Central Advisory Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI).

Serian further outlined that in addressing Ramadan and approaching this year’s Eid al-Fitr, there are three strategic steps to strengthen brotherhood.