The photo exhibition, held on November 26-December 3, 2018, at the Klarisky Church, Bratislava, was part of a series of celebratory events to mark 25 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Slovakia, according to a press statement from the Indonesian Embassy received by Antara here, Tuesday.
The photos on display were taken by Demes during his visit to Indonesia on April 12-21, 2018. The photos illustrate the tolerance and harmony in religious life and interfaith dialogue among followers of different beliefs in Indonesia.
Demes` visit was the result of collaboration between the Indonesian Embassy in Bratislava and the Center for Religious Harmony of the Indonesian Ministry of Religion. During his visit to Indonesia, Demes had visited religious centers, such as mosques, churches, Buddhist and Hindu temples, as well as orphanages in the three cities of Jakarta, Bandung in West Java, and Yogyakarta.
Indonesian Ambassador to Slovakia Adiyatwidi Adiwoso remarked that this photo exhibition was part of an interfaith dialogue held in collaboration with Slovakia.
"The photo exhibition, bearing the theme of `Unity in Diversity,` draws inspiration from Indonesia`s philosophy of Pancasila," he explained, adding that the exhibition is expected to offer a broader understanding of religious diversity as well as clear misconceptions, misperceptions, and misinterpretations on religious differences.
The exhibition`s opening was attended by high-ranking Slovakian officials, diplomats from fellow countries, press, academics, and representatives of the religious community in Bratislava.
Head of the Slovak Presidential Office Stefan Rozkopal, who also served as ambassador of Slovakia to Indonesia, was present as the guest of honor.
Rozkopal pointed out that Pancasila, or the five pillars of Indonesia, and the philosophy of Unity in Diversity, or so-called Bhineka Tunggal Ika, are the vital foundation for Indonesia to unite Indonesians, who speak different languages, belong to various ethnicities, and follow different religions.
According to Rozkopal, the Slovak public is currently also facing several negative assumptions and prejudices against Muslims. Hence, the photo exhibition held by the Indonesian government, as the representative of the largest Muslim country in the world, is one way to shed light on the true religious life.
The exhibition was held in an old gothic church built in 1297 and located in Bratislava`s Old Town.
At least 1,500 people attended the exhibition that will be followed by photo lectures offered by Demes at several universities in Slovakia.
Reporting by Zeynita Gibbon, Libertina W Ambari
Editing by Andi Abdussalam
Reporter: Antara
Editor: Yosep Hariyadi
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
