FPI Promises Not to Take Down Christmas Attributes in Malls
22 December 2014 19:34 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Islamic Defender Front’s (FPI) Governor, Fahrurrozi Ishaq, said that he will not bring about issues about Christmas accessories in malls. Fahrurrozi said that Indonesian constitution secures religious freedom, as refered in Article 29.
Fahrurrozi claimed that it represents pluralism spirit of Islam. "Islam is rahmatan lil'alamin, meaning that it cannot obstruct other religion’s celebration," he said.
Previously, Jamaah Ansharusy Syariah (JAS) threatens to take down all Christmas attributes in malls. The group, affiliated with Abu Bakar Baasyir’s notorious group, Jamaah Ansharus Tauhid, refered to the Indonesian Ulema Council’s fatwa on 1981. The ruling bans the installation of Christmas accessory, Christmas greetings, and assisting Christians in securing Christmas.
FPI Chief Muchsin Alatas confirmed that his organization will not raiding malls with Christmas accessory. "We only question retailers who forced Moslem employees to wear Christmas attributes," said Muchsin.
RAYMUNDUS RIKANG
