In a statement issued Tuesday in Jakarta, MUI Secretary General Amirsyah Tambunan urged Indonesians to take a stand in support of the liberation of Palestine from all forms of colonization.
“This should be rejected as it aligns with the constitutional mandate that independence is the right of all nations and that colonialism must be abolished because it contradicts the principles of humanity and justice,” Tambunan said.
He emphasized that rejecting the presence of the Israeli athletes is intended to uphold Indonesia’s sovereignty and preserve the integrity of Indonesian sports on the global stage.
Echoing this sentiment, MUI Chairman for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, underscored Indonesia’s lack of diplomatic relations with Israel and stressed the importance of maintaining a firm stance.
“This commitment must not be compromised. Sporting events such as gymnastics competitions should not provoke public outrage or undermine the longstanding support for the Palestinian struggle,” he stated.
Hakim warned that allowing the Israeli team to participate could negatively impact Indonesia’s diplomatic standing internationally, especially following the firm position articulated by President Prabowo Subianto at various global forums.
“The Indonesian government must remain focused and cautious. Energy should not be wasted on matters that could spark controversy and public unrest,” he added.
He called on the Ministry of Youth and Sports, as well as event organizers, to take immediate preventive action.
“Those responsible for organizing this event, including if it involves the Ministry of Youth and Sports, must ensure that Israeli athletes are not permitted to participate. Other countries have shown courage in saying no,” Hakim concluded.
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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti, Kuntum Khaira
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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