"President Yudhoyono must utilize his visit to convey the concern of Muslim countries. The governments of Western countries should not be excessive in using the expression of freedom that insults Islam," international law expert Hikmahanto Juwana said here on Saturday.
He added that even though security in western countries was not disturbed, in Muslim countries such expressions disturbs security. "Even, it has caused many people to fall victim."
Hikmahanto said if the expression of freedom would cause disturbances to international security, then international security should be given priority.
"The culprits of blaspheme must face legal processes in order to create legal deterrents so that the culprits or other parties would not repeat the same deeds," he said.
He further expressed hope that the closing of a foreign embassy in Jakarta should not happen again due to security concerns.
This would leave the impression in the international community that Indonesia was a failed country, such as Somalia, because security authorities could not provide and ensure adequate security.
On Friday, the US and French embassies were closed in fear of protests against the circulation of the `Innocence of Muslims` film.
(A014/INE//KR-BSR/H-YH)
Editor: Jafar M Sidik
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
