TEMPO.CO, Tangerang - The police guaranteed the security and safety of Buddhist monk Mulyanto Nurhalim who became a victim of persecution in Babat Village, Legok, Tangerang. Interfaith leaders have also held meetings to keep the issue from escalating.
"The condition is now safe. Mr. Mulyanto has returned to his normal activities," Legok Police chief Adj. Comr. Murodih said on Sunday, February 11.
Mulyanto (43) is a young monk who lives in Kebon Waru. He lives alone and spends his days at home to remain secluded and practice fasting. Almost every day, he receives guests from outside the village.
"His visitors are Buddhists who deliver food for him," Murodih said.
On Febrary 5, a group of people visited Mulyanto and requested him to leave Babat Village, accusing him of spreading Buddhism and "recruiting" people into becoming Buddhists. The incident was videotaped and uploaded to social media.
Then, the sub-district forum (Muspika) of Legok held meeting with local figures, where it was declared that Mulyanto has the rights to live in Babat Village as he is a was raised there. He also has a legitimate ID card.
It was also reinstated that Mulyanto's house is not a place of worship and that people come there not to practice worshipping.
JONIANSYAH
