"We must invest in digital literacy and critical thinking skills to empower our citizens to discern credible information," he explained while delivering a virtual speech at the "International Conference on Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy (LKLB)" organized by Leimena Institute in Jakarta.
This has become increasingly urgent amid the rapid development of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which can influence the thinking of individuals and society; their access to knowledge; or relationships between groups, he said.
He then highlighted the importance of dealing with religious prejudice and hate speech, and protecting religious minorities by building awareness, developing education, and ensuring strict sanctions against hate crimes based on religion.
"Governments should prevent, investigate, and punish acts of violence against persons belonging to religious minorities," Kao said.
Social media managers must also take more action to restrain hate speech, for instance, by strengthening content moderation.
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The secretary-general also emphasized the importance of listening to those most affected by hate speech and improving channels for reporting hate speech.
Kao said that his party will continue to encourage inter-religious and cross-cultural dialogue in all aspects to promote tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights, and prevent hate speech.
He also emphasized the importance of such dialogue in building an understanding of religious and cultural diversity, especially in a geostrategic context, such as in Southeast Asia.
"Schools, universities, and community and faith-based organizations play a pivotal role in promoting interfaith understanding and collaboration," he said.
He further said he believes that future generations will be able to live in a more open and respectful world through efforts such as implementing an educational curriculum that pays more attention to diversity and developing platforms for dialogue.
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Translator: Nabil Ihsan, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
