Jakarta, Oct 25 (ANTARA News) - Minister of Religion Lukman Hakim Saifuddin said that santri (Islamic student) must be a pioneer in establishing unity.

On the sidelines of the Archipelago Santri Scout Campsite (PPSN) V on Abdurrahman Sayoeti Musa Campsite, Jambi, on Thursday, Lukman said students should be able to maintain the integrity of the country, while being consistent as they move along the Islamic path.

In a written statement, he said santri should not be carried away by the influence of radicalism, which has experienced growth.

"In this latest development, radical groups always contrast between Islamization and Indonesia," he said.

With Islamic symbols, he added, the group did things that had implications for dividing national unity.

Lukman noted that the history of the pesantren (Islamic schools) was intertwined with the colors of nationalism and patriotism.

During the colonial period, he said, the pesantren became a place to train fighters.

"For that, the pesantren must continue to inflame the importance of patriotism and love," he said.

Reporting by Anom Prihantoro
Editing by Eliswan

Reporter: Antara
Editor: Eliswan Azly
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