TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry criticized the British Embassy in Jakarta for raising the flag representing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender or LGBT last week. The action followed by publication on its social media was considered insensitive and sparked a controversy among the public.

“The Foreign Affairs Ministry reminds foreign representatives to be able to uphold and respect the sensitivity of cultural values, religion, and beliefs prevailing in Indonesia,” said the ministry’s spokesman Teuku Faizasyah to Tempo on Monday, May 23, 2022.

A few days ago, the British Embassy to Indonesia raised a rainbow flag that is identical with the LGBT community next to its national flag on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

The embassy uploaded the picture on its Instagram account, @ukinindonesia, arguing that LGBT+ rights are fundamental human rights.

“Love is precious. Everyone, everywhere, should be free to love who they love and express themselves without fear of violence or discrimination. They should not have to suffer shame or guilt just for being who they are,” as quoted from the photo’s caption.

Faizasyah also said Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi asked the British Embassy to make an explanation. The ministry has also sent a letter for clarification and a meeting with the British Ambassador to Indonesia was planned to be held this afternoon.

M JULNIS FIRMANSYAH

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