Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) highlighted the power of national unity in promoting ideas of togetherness as means to combat hateful narratives rampant in social media.

"All in this big family must (counter) the hate speech, particularly in social media," the agency's head, Boy Rafli Amar, noted in a statement received here on Sunday.

He made the statement during the National Tadarus (Quran recitations) and Muslim Leadership Road Map Creation here on Saturday.

Amar stated that the agency encourages Islamic organizations to actively take part in initiatives that promote the unity in diversity narratives as they can help strengthen the spirit of nationalism among Indonesians, he reasoned.

Moreover, he also compelled people to read about history, about heroes who sacrificed their lives for the dreams and goals of the nation.

"Narratives on national aspect are what we all need nowadays. Islamic Organizations Friendship Institution (LPOI) has become BNPT's partner all along. Of course, the Islamic organizations have helped BNPT all along by (voicing values of nationality) for our people," he elaborated.

Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister of Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Mahfud MD noted that truthfully, the Islamic culture in Indonesia has been really positive all along. However, there are some people who attempt to disrupt peace and divide people with their negative views.

"The Islamic culture has been rooted. So, do not disrupt it with radicalism and takfiri (accusing someone of being unbeliever) views," the minister said.

Hence, Mahfud MD compelled all Islamic organizations to promote the loving, unifying values which Islam highlights.

"In Indonesia, Islam is peace. It has also grown in accordance with the Islamic cultures in Southeast Asia. Let us all solidify this national bond," he added.

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Translator: Putu Indah Savitri, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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