TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United Development Party (PPP) deputy chairman Emron Pangkapai said PPP is interested in coalition with Islamic parties and even ready to become host to initiate Islamic parties coalition.

"We are realistic. Religion-based parties are on the rise throughout the world," said Emron before attending Islamic Politics Coalition Forum in Cikini, Central Jakarta, Thursday. Emron said if five Islamic parties in Indonesia merge, central axis will repeat itself.

According to Emron, in the 2009 general elections, the total votes for Islamic parties are only 19 percent. From the recent quick counts by several pollsters, the total votes for Islamic parties are 31 percent. He said the meeting between Islamic figures will consolidate the idea about Islamic parties.

This forum itself was attended by several Islamic figures such as the head of advisory council on PAN (National Mandate Party) Amien Rais, PKS (Prosperous Justice Party) president Anis Matta, former PKS president Hidayat Nur Wahid, MUI (Indonesian Ulema Council) chairman Amidhan and PKB (National Awakening Party) treasurer Bahrudin Nasori.

Emron said to have met Rhoma Irama a few days ago. Rhoma is one of the presidential candidate nominated by PKB. From the meeting, they concluded the momentum of Islamic parties revival must be maintained. "PPP prepares itself as the host for Islamic parties".

WAYAN AGUS PURNOMO