"Diversity is our wealth," he stressed.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has invited the public to commemorate International Tolerance Day, which falls on November 16, by continuing to foster the spirit of collaboration.



"Diversity is our potential to understand and collaborate with each other. Because those who are not family by the same faith are family in humanity," Qoumas said in a written statement released on Tuesday.



The point of celebrating International Tolerance Day is to celebrate diversity in real life and to build an understanding and provide space for each religion and faith, he added.



Every human being must have awareness of the diversity in religions, languages, cultures, and ethnicities, he said. Diversity is not an excuse for conflict, but the wealth of mankind, he remarked.


Related news: Research shows Indonesia has high tolerance: BKKBN head



"Diversity is our wealth," he stressed.



The Ministry of Religious Affairs is trying to strengthen religious moderation, Qoumas said. There are four indicators for strengthening religious moderation—national commitment, tolerance, non-violence, and affinity with tradition, the minister informed.



He said religious moderation denotes a perspective, attitude, and religious practice in common life. The practice reflects the religious essence that protects human dignity and builds benefits based on fair and balanced principles, as well as obeying the Constitution as a national agreement, he added.


Related news: Local figures playing key role in influencing societal tolerance



"Religious moderation is not an attempt to moderate religion, but to moderate our understanding and practice of religion," he explained.



Qoumas said he hopes the State Apparatus (ASN) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs will pioneer the strengthening of religious moderation.



He also invited religious leaders, academics, youth leaders, lecturers, teachers, and religious instructors, as well as millennials to work together to increase tolerance.


Related news: Serang-Panimbang Toll Road to improve logistics networks: President


Related news: G20 Presidency opportunity to lead global economic recovery: Minister

Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Resinta S
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2021