To better understand Pancasila

According to political science, ideology is needed to insulate states against intervention by religion. In other words, ideology is the line that separates the territory of the state from that of religion. This being the case, ideology is not religion. However, as soon as the state starts treating ideology as a sacred system of values, the difference between ideology and religion begins to blur.

This is what we have been experiencing with regard to Pancasila. This cherished (national) ideology of ours has been so rigidly protected that it has become impossible for sound reasoning to penetrate it. Pancasila gradually became an ideology, forbidding even to those who adhere to it. Individuals or groups who are accused by the state of being anti-Pancasila lose everything as citizens. We have turned Pancasila into a dictator.

We are at present entering an era of enlightenment in the name of reform. This country needs an ideology that is applicable because it is understood. Too rigid an ideology would grow into a tyrant. On the other hand, an ideology that is too open to different interpretations could result in anarchy.

In any case, turning an ideology into a collection of sacred guidelines is a mistake that must be terminated. Pancasila must be allowed to compete fairly with other ideologies. Pancasila must open itself to interpretations that enrich our understanding of it and strengthen its endurance.

-- Media Indonesia, Jakarta