Religious Leaders Asked to Promote Peace, Prevent Provocation

 Demonstrations continue in Jakarta and several regions, with some proceeding peacefully while others have been marred by acts of vandalism this week.

Responding to the current situation, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar appealed to protesters not to resort to violence in expressing their aspirations. He also called on religious and community leaders to help calm their followers and prevent them from being provoked.

“I urge religious and community figures to deliver messages that clarify and soothe, so that social cohesion is preserved. Messages of peace are needed to prevent people from being provoked,” Nasaruddin said during a Zikir and National Prayer Gathering in Button Tengah, Southeast Sulawesi, on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

He emphasized that expressing aspirations is the right of every citizen, but warned that acts of violence harm all sides. To religious instructors, preachers, kyai, and ustadz, Nasaruddin asked that they consistently convey the importance of unity and national cohesion in every religious activity. A similar appeal was also extended to leaders of religious universities.

“As guides of the people, the role of religious figures, community leaders, scholars, and academics is vital in clarifying and calming the situation,” he stated.

The minister expressed deep condolences over lives lost and those injured during the demonstrations. He prayed for the late Affan Kurniawan, offered strength to the bereaved family, and wished a speedy recovery for those under treatment. On legal matters, he urged the public to trust law enforcement.

“The legal process is ongoing, and we must trust law enforcement authorities to carry it out professionally and transparently,” he said.

Nasaruddin, who also serves as the Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, invited all religious communities to pray for Indonesia’s continued peace, safety, and harmony.

“We hope that all parties can draw lessons from the recent events and work toward improvements in the future,” he concluded.