Plurality Inspiration for Young Generation

IL News 007/2018

Who are we? Why are we here? Why do we with different ethnic, religion, and race, become one nation, Indonesia?

If Indonesia history is only learnt based on news and events influenced by ethnic, religion, and race (SARA) issues these few years, we will be pessimistic in projecting our nation’s future. The narration of the nation that we understand and believe in, will determine our perception and action.

This topic is delivered by Matius Ho, the Executive Director of Leimena Institute, in a seminar “My Peaceful Indonesia” in Petra Christian University, Surabaya, on March 27th 2018.

From the history of Indonesia pluralism, the audiences are persuaded to reflect on role models that they believe have given birth to this “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ (unity in diversity) nation. To make enemy of those who are different (ethnic, religion, and race), or to appreciate the pluralism as shown in 16th century by Sunan Kudus, who respect the local culture at that time and build Menara Kudus Mosque with collaboration style of Hindu-Budha temple.

Are we going to blindly protect our group interest or follow Johannes Leimena model back in 1950? Just when Republic of South Mollusca were declared in his birth land, he reminded Christian congregation not to separating themselves from Indonesia, more over they should become true Indonesia citizens.

This seminar is organized by Student Executive Council (BEM) of Petra Christian University, led by Michellin Mellysa Mindra Prayogo, and closed with a talk-show hosted by Fanny Lesmana, M.Med.Kom, Communication Lecturer.