The Minister of Religious Affairs of The Republic of Indonesia, Nasaruddin Umar emphasized that the values of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) must be a fundamental framework in strengthening religious moderation in Indonesia. The statement was delivered in a cultural address at the Reflection 2025 and Projection 2026 forum held in Jakarta.
The Minister emphasized that Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is not merely a unifying national slogan, but a cultural value derived from Indonesia’s long historical experience in preserving diversity of ethnicity, religion, and tradition. However, without a comprehensive and shared understanding of this value, diversity may potentially escalate into social conflict.
He further explained that when diversity is perceived only at a superficial level, space for interfaith dialogue becomes increasingly limited, allowing mutual suspicion to grow. This situation, he warned, can disrupt social harmony and weaken national unity.
Furthermore, the Minister of Religious Affairs emphasized that religious moderation requires a deep understanding of the substance of religious teachings which promote humanity values—rather than an excessive focus on symbols and identity. In addition, he stated that many social conflicts arise when religion is interpreted partially and detached from cultural wisdom.
The Minister also emphasized that diversity is a historical inevitability, while unity is a conscious choice that must be continuously nurtured. Therefore, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika should be embraced as a collective mindset in religious life, ensuring that society does not fall into exclusivist attitudes or unilateral claims of truth.
Minister Nasaruddin Umar called on all stakeholders, including members of the Hindu community, to work together in preserving cultural values and strengthening religious moderation in order to foster a harmonious and peaceful national life.
The forum was attended by Senior officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, special staff and expert advisers to the Minister, University Rectors, and Heads of Regional Offices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs from various regions across Indonesia.
