Speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Bantul, Yogyakarta Province, in response to President Joko Widodo's order to the religious affairs minister to tackle radicalism, Nashir said the issues of radicalism should not be labelled or directed to a specific religion.
He argued that the issues of radicalism are not merely directed to religious matters, but are also related to such matters as state, ideological, and social behaviours.
Therefore, the counter-radicalism measures that Razi would enforce should measurably and carefully be implemented. "It means, please do not judge that this is radical and this is not radical," he said.
Nashir said many victims of extremely violent acts in Indonesia had nothing to do with religious extremism.
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While introducing his new cabinet members on Wednesday, President Joko Widodo drew the attention of the appointed religious affairs minister on the dire need to tackle radicalism.
Also, Vice President Amin brought up issues related to radicalism during his meeting with Malaysian King Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta'in Billah.
"I called on Malaysia, together with Indonesia, to develop a peaceful and tolerant Islam as 'rahmatan lil alamin' (graceful for the universe), so we can prevent the spread of radicalism in Islam," Amin stated in Tokyo on Tuesday.
He pointed out that Indonesia, with the world's largest Muslim population, along with Malaysia, play a pivotal role in developing Islam “wasathiyah,” a middle path or moderate Islam that balances the way of life, avoids extremes, and believes in moderation.
Both countries are expected to maintain peace in Southeast Asia.
"Indonesia and Malaysia are both Muslim-majority countries. At the same time, ASEAN is facing the emergence of radicalism and intolerance," Amin pointed out.
Former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Wiranto also highlighted radicalism as one of the serious “homeworks” that need to be handled by his successor, Mahfud MD.
Related news: Radicalism called "homework" for Mahfud MD: Wiranto
Related news: VP Amin, Malaysian King discuss endeavors to fight radicalism
Translator: Luqman Hakim, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Sri Haryati
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