Jokowi Warns against Spread of Radicalism in Universities

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has warned against the spread of radicalism in universities across Indonesia.

Jokowi gave his remarks today in the closing of Indonesia University Leaders’ Meeting in Badung Regency, Bali.

“We have seen ideological infiltration to replace Pancasila and divide us. We cannot avoid the age of openness that allows silent infiltration through social media,” he said.

Jokowi said it is now easier to share and gather information. On the other hand, the openness allows room for ideological infiltration.

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Therefore, President Joko Widodo has warned against efforts to divide the nation.

According to him, the infiltration is being carried out smoothly using the latest approach.

As a result, people forget that Indonesia already has an ideology that unites the people: Pancasila.

“Many of us have been lulled by it, forgetting that we have Pancasila. I’m proud that a declaration has been made by Indonesian university leaders to unite us in the NKRI [Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia], to uphold the 1945 Constitution and preserve Bhinneka Tunggal Ika [the national motto, Unity in Diversity],” Jokowi said.

He warned against the spread of ideologies that contravene Pancasila, NKRI and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in campuses.

Moreover, he has called on the people to foster brotherhood.

“If we all still love Indonesia, we have to stop ideological infiltration, radicalism and terrorism in universities across Indonesia to strengthen unity and brotherhood. Don’t let the hard work for our grandchildren put to pieces because of terrorism and radicalism that could set our nation backward,” he noted. On the occasion, Jokowi was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Research, Technology and High Education Minister M Nasir and Bali Governor I Made Mangku Pastika.

ANTARA