Ramadan Safari in Bangkalan: Mardiono Insists International Conflict Stance Must Be Grounded in the 1945 Constitution
INFO TEMPO — The Special Presidential Envoy for Food Security, who is also the General Chairman of the United Development Party (PPP), Muhamad Mardiono, said that Indonesia cannot adopt a morally neutral stance toward the escalating war between Iran and the US-Israel that could widen instability in the Middle East. ‘Indonesia indeed adheres to an independent and active foreign policy. But being independent does not mean without position. When aggression occurs and civilian casualties mount, we cannot be morally neutral,’ he said at a communal gathering and iftar at the Al-Ibrohimy Islamic boarding school in Bangkalan, East Java, on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
According to him, Indonesia’s stance should rest on the mandate of the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution which states that independence is the right of every nation and that colonialism must be abolished from the face of the earth.
In addition, he said the Iran vs US-Israel war risks triggering global spillovers, including disruptions to energy and food supply chains. The situation, he said, could affect developing countries like Indonesia, which is maintaining economic growth and food security.
Mardiono emphasised that conflict resolution should prioritise diplomacy and respect for international law, including the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. ‘Any violation of territorial integrity and the safety of civilians is against the spirit of the constitution and international law. Indonesia needs to push for de-escalation and dialogue,’ he said.
He also urged the government to utilise multilateral forums to call for a ceasefire and humanitarian protection. According to him, Indonesia’s position as the world’s largest Muslim-majority country and a democracy gives moral legitimacy to play the role of a communication bridge. ‘Indonesia does not take sides with any power bloc. We side with peace, justice, and world stability.’ (*)