"Today, December 1, 2022, from the Cenderawasih Square, I wish all Christians in Papua and all parts of the country a Merry Christmas," Amin remarked.
Christmas is a moment for joy as well as a moment to spread love, hope, and peace, he said.
"I highly appreciate the Papuan people. The teaching, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ makes the value of love able to cross the boundaries of differences," he added.
The Land of Papua, according to him, is the face of a "mini Indonesia" that embraces the idea of pluralism. He said the region is the most tolerant area according to a Religious Affairs Ministry release.
"Let us maintain harmony, tolerance, and caring as a manifestation of our awareness and joint efforts to mutually respect each other. From Biak Island, spread love, brotherhood, unity, and a message of peace for Indonesia," he said.
VP Amin also invited the public and related officials to participate in national and regional development honestly and sincerely, as sought by Dominee (pastor) Izaac Samuel Kijne.
Pastor Kijne was a missionary from the Netherlands who became a school principal in Manokwari, West Papua, in 1923. Kijne sought to improve Papuans' quality of education and life.
"Once again, from the ‘Lips of the Pacific Ocean,’ I wish all Christians a Merry Christmas 2022," the Vice President remarked.
Meanwhile, Biak Numfor district head Herry Ario Naap sought Amin's support for making Saereri, a region where many indigenous tribes live, the venue for the Sail Teluk Cenderawasih (STC) event in 2023. The STC event aims to accelerate Papua's development and cooperation among indigenous territories.
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Translator: Desca N, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
