Politically, society is divided into groups supporting different presidential and vice presidential candidates that competed in the five-yearly democratic event.

Indonesia is a diverse country in terms of ethnicity, culture, religion and political views. This diversity should be regarded as the nation's wealth and strength, and not otherwise.

Lately however, we have been witnesses to social friction, conflicts and polarization triggered by these differences. This certainly threatens national unity and integrity, which is one of the principles of the state ideology Pancasila.

Dr. Usman Kansong, the Director General of Public Information and Communication at the Ministry of Communications and Information, states that elections are a means to produce leaders to advance Indonesia. He therefore invites the public to always maintain a safe and peaceful atmosphere after an election.

Any differences in opinion are normal in a democracy, and any issues related to an election are best addressed through constitutional channels to avoid actions that could disrupt peace.

"Diversity is highly respected in a democratic system. Therefore, democracy is a mandate that we must uphold and execute to the best of our ability,” Usman said during the Peaceful 2024 Election Religious Harmony Forum themed "Temporary Differences in Choice, Brotherhood Forever", held in Cirebon, West Java, on Friday (02/23/2024).

“Democracy is a means to achieve better progress. The essence is to continue to maintain harmony, tolerance and mutual respect. Let us together guard our hearts and minds. Let us together weave harmony to build Indonesia," he emphasized.

At the same event, Rizki Riyadu Taufiq from the Advisory Council of Cirebon city’s Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) noted that the 2024 election was conducted in a relatively safe, smooth and peaceful manner.

Rizki noted that this year’s election was vastly different from the 2019 election, which saw social division. At that time, he said, friction at the grassroots was very noticeable due to the use of identity politics, which polarized society.

"We saw in the latest election [2024], we certainly have different choices. Differences are only for that day. Different choices are normal, brotherhood is forever. The most important thing is the harmonization of our lives for now and forever," he added.

Pastor Heru Kusumo, a Christian figure in Cirebon, also said this year’s election proceeded peacefully, without sharp divisions in society over different political views. This was also evident on social media platforms, which were not flooded with hate speech and hoaxes as in previous elections.

"The public has become very intelligent. Different choices do not lead to division or hostility. Let us together reweave the bonds of kinship as fellow citizens," said Heru.

Prof. KH Khairil Anwar, a senior lecturer at the Postgraduate State Islamic University (IAIN) of Palangkaraya, previously spoke about maintaining the three key principles of justice, tolerance and inclusiveness after an election.

"With ahigh consciousness of national and humanitarian values, I hope that Indonesia can face the future with strong unity and harmony," Khairil said, as quoted by state-owned news agency Antara.

Reconciliation and nation-building were important focuses after an election, especially considering the inevitable differences of opinion that arise during the campaign period.

"All parties that have finished contesting need to reconcile wisely and intelligently, especially amid the political dynamics following the 2024 election. In my opinion, the first step to reconciliation can start from the ties between political parties with different supporters and views," he said.

National figures are also expected to play a role in reconciliation that aims to preserve Indonesia's dignity as the largest democracy in the world. Their participation is expected to strengthen national values and unity following the election.

Aside from national figures, the greater public also has a key role in maintaining harmony and peace amid the turmoil stemming from the 2024 election.

"We believe the community is capable of maintaining harmony and peace, so what is necessary now is how the quality of the election is maintained by upholding public morality and law enforcement for legal violations," said Father Benny, a religious figure.

Therefore, the professionalism of the General Elections Commission (KPU) and the Elections Supervisory Board (Bawaslu) as election organizers required continuous monitoring and maintenance.

"The KPU and Bawaslu must work professionally and show the public how to maintain neutrality for a dignified, fair and transparent election," Benny said.

Similarly, Dede Azwar Nurmansyah, chairman of public relations and information from the Central Board of Ahlulbait Indonesia (DPP ABI), lauded the government and election organizers, including the KPU, for working sincerely and hard to ensure that the 2024 election ran smoothly.

All featured speakers of the Religious Harmony Forum stressed that maintaining the quality of democracy is crucial and through the democratic process of elections, Indonesia will get quality leaders.

They also share the belief that whoever wins the 2024 election will be able to lead Indonesia toward becoming a more advanced, prosperous, peaceful and just nation.

This article was published in collaboration with Ministry of Communications and Informatics

Popular

Indonesia may offer dual citizenship to attract overseas workers, minister says

Ministry unveils new funding initiative for climate-resilient health system

Sri Mulyani vows to improve customs services