In this regard, surah Al-Hujarat (49:10) (of the Quran) says: "The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy," the Sultan said, citing a Quran verse.
Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - Governor of Yogyakarta Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X has called for "islah," or reconciliation or settlement of dispute, between two political rivals to allay the political turmoil arising after the presidential election on April 17, 2019.

The Sultan drew parallel between the current situation and that in 1948 when the nation was under the threat of disintegration, as friction among political elites exposed a nationwide divide.

"Wasn't the situation in 1948 similar to the event in 2019 when we seemed to be divided into two groups. The consequence is we need to establish 'islah' (reconciliation)," he remarked in Bantul, Yogyakarta, on Thursday.

Sultan cited the Islamic law under which "islah" translates to make something better, to make peace, and restore harmony in life, as well as to set aside conflicts or prevent damages. Hence, in the event of a dispute, a third party intervention is deemed necessary for mediating and making "islah."

"The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy," the Sultan stated while citing a Quran verse surah Al-Hujarat (49:10).

During the Eid Al-Fitr Islamic Festivity, he appealed to all to deepen friendship and forgive one another.

"Promote togetherness, cooperation, sharing, and synergy to build a useful civilization, to catch up with the progress achieved by other countries in the world," he emphasized.

He also urged those in regions supporting either incumbent Joko Widodo (Jokowi) or contender Prabowo Subianto to embrace cultural "islah."

Jokowi and Subianto yet again clash in the presidential race this year, akin to the presidential election in 2014 when political tensions rode high, thereby bringing to light the divide among supporters of both camps.

Several parties have sought reconciliation between the two rivals as the division is, in fact, deeper at present.

Translator: Hery Sidik, Fardah
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2019