The program offers couples facilities to get married, from outfits, make-up and hairdo, and even the dowry, all free of charge, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar said here on Sunday. He noted that the registration is important to ensure families get their rights and legal protection.
Moreover, it is also a means to maintain Indonesia's disposition, identity, and values, as marriage is a matter beyond bond between two people, he added.
Umar said that some people still refuse to register their marriage in religious affairs office, citing financial issues as the factor even though the registration itself is free of charge.
He also warned Indonesian people against adopting western approaches and views on relationships and marriages, which are against the values which Indonesia holds.
The minister highlighted the phenomenon in which some western countries, like France, North America, and Canada, where there is low interest among people to get married. Even the French government had to give huge incentives for its people to get married and have kids, he said.
"Children born from French native parents are even getting scholarships and tax exemptions," he pointed out.
Moreover, in Canada, living together without marriage is common, he added.
"I was in Canada once. I have a friend who lived together (with a partner) for 20 years, even they have one child together," he said.
Therefore, he also urged the ministry's staff and officials to remind people of the importance of registering marriage.
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Arie Novarina
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