The Ramadhan spirit

Ramadhan, which begins in Indonesia today (Wednesday), could not have come at a more opportune time. Being the Islamic holy month, and given that Islam is the dominant religion in Indonesia, Ramadhan is always a good time for our nation to contemplate its future.

The Oct. 12 bomb attacks in Bali has shocked us as a nation. It has shaken our long held belief that ours is, by and large, a peaceful country shielded from terrorist attacks. The horrific tragedy has awakened the nation, particularly the government, to finally respond to the challenges that the threat of terrorism is posing. It has forced us to review the way we govern this country, and on the way we conduct our relations with other nations and countries.

Islam has been put in the spotlight in the current war on terrorism, for two main reasons.

First, radical groups that use Islam as their banners, or their leaders, have been accused of being part of a wider international terrorist network. While there is no evidence to support these accusations so far, the fact that these groups publicly endorse the use of violence to achieve their goals must disturb the conscience.

Secondly and perhaps more importantly, Islam inevitably plays a pivotal role in the nationwide campaign against terror, because it is the dominant religion. The mainstream Islamic organizations, which we know always preach tolerance and moderation, therefore, hold the key to the success of the campaign.

The future of this nation -- from the safety of the people, the territorial integrity of our country, the peaceful coexistence of the different religious communities, to the prosperity of the country -- to a large extent depends on how the Muslim community, and its leaders, rise to the challenge.

The Ramadhan month therefore is a good opportunity for all of us, but for Muslims in particular, to contemplate, and to seek His guidance on the proper response and courses of action to take. May the Ramadhan spirit guide us to the right path.