TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu said the government could easily return Indonesian former ISIS fighters home from their current refugee camp in Syria.

However, he only noted that these men and women must verbally pledge allegiance to the country’s five ideologies (Pancasila) and the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). Ryamizard also warned that the pledge must annul the teachings of ISIS.

“They must pledge first. If they want to stay in Indonesia with their ISIS teachings, then they shouldn’t return home,” said Ryamizard at the ministry’s headquarters on Tuesday, July 9.

Ryamizard made sure that his requirement applies to women and children who were exposed to the Islamic States' teachings.

The former Indonesian Army Chief of Staff revealed that the government is willing to return them home in the name of humanity.

“We are a merciful nation, but if they aren't permitted to immediately hold attacks once they arrive here. They should first pledge not to do such things,” he explained.

The June 15 (June 18 for English version) edition of Tempo Magazine wrote about the hundreds of former Indonesian IS fighters who are living in limbo at a refugee camp in Syria. Speaking to Tempo, these people asked the Indonesian government to help them return home. The Kurdish authority has voiced its willingness to do that only if there is an official request from the Indonesian government.

AHMAD FAIZ IBNU SANI