"I appreciate the Indonesian Foreign Ministry's step to call the French Ambassador on Tuesday (October 27, 2020) and convey criticism against the French President's statement," Sukamta stated in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He said he hoped the Indonesian government would be proactive in communicating with member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and encourage a joint statement from the organization condemning Macron's remarks.
He also asked the government, through its representatives in European countries, to intensify surveillance and protection of Indonesian nationals residing in those countries.
"As it is very possible that Macron's words can increase the violent tendencies of the far-right groups against Muslims and immigrants," he explained.
Earlier on October 23, 2020, Sukamta had also criticized Macron’s statement targeting Islam and defending the depiction and publication of cartoons on Prophet Muhammad by Charlie Hebdo magazine.
Macron's remarks showed short-sightedness and could jeopardize efforts to build a harmonious world, he cautioned.
“The symbol of (any) religion is sacred to its adherents. For Muslims, the Prophet Muhammad is the most important figure. Macron's words clearly hurt the hearts of Muslims around the world, we are very angry about this insult," Sukamta said.
He said he considered Macron's statement to have fueled Islamophobia as well as encouraged hatred against religious believers. Macron’s words have tarnished the principles of freedom and universal values, he added.
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Translator: Imam B/Aria Cindyara
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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