The level of religious tolerance in Papua is high. That is why the Ministry of Religious Affairs praises this province for its peaceful coexistence and understanding between different religious communities.
In recent years, the region has significantly promoted interfaith tolerance. Then, it leads to greater harmony and unity among the people of Papua.
One of the reasons for this success is the emphasis on the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation by the government and civil society organizations.
How to Maintain the Religious Tolerance?
The tolerance spirit among communities becomes stronger. A real example of this statement is the Easter celebration during the holy month of Ramadan. Christians and Muslims have respected each other’s religious practices and come together to celebrate their respective holy days.
The key to maintaining religious tolerance in Papua is mutual respect. No wonder Papua can be second for the highest Indonesian Harmony Index.
Suzana Wanggai, acting assistant for Economy and People’s Welfare, stated that the Easter celebration during Ramadan becomes a great opportunity to improve tolerance in Papua.
The achievement of Papua ranking in the top three in the Religious Harmony Index shows that all Papuan have a good attitude toward maintaining tolerance.
Besides, Papuans are not easy to provoke. They do not believe hoaxes or rumors that can damage unity. This characteristic helps create a peaceful environment. Even though there are several religions in Papua, the communities can still live peacefully.
In addition, Papuan’s religious tolerance is high because of cooperation with the government. The government has also played a role in facilitating all religions.
For example, the local government permitted churches to hold Easter services during Ramadhan. Similarly, the government has ensured Muslims can observe their fasting and prayers during Ramadan without hindrance or disturbance.
The Papuan government shows real action to support religious moderation. This way, people in Papua can live in peaceful diversity.
Harmony Award
Recently, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has given Harmony Award to the Sarmi district government. The reason for giving this award is this district can maintain interfaith tolerance in Papua.
Markus Oktovianus, the Head of the Sarmi district, stated that his region can win this award because the communities can preserve religious harmony. All elements of the districts, including the government, religious leaders, and communities, work hard to maintain tolerance.
Markus also stated that the main objective of maintaining tolerance is to live harmoniously in a diverse community. So, winning an award is just a bonus. He hopes that Sarmi District can be an example for other regions in Indonesia to maintain inter-faith harmony.
In addition, the government has also been working to provide equal opportunities and services to all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
This has helped to build trust and confidence among different communities. Also, it has contributed to greater social cohesion and unity.
Building Spirit of Tolerance
While Papua has made significant progress in promoting interfaith tolerance, it is still required to improve. There are several ways to enhance the spirit of tolerance in this region.
First, education plays a critical role in promoting interfaith understanding and tolerance. Schools and educational institutions should promote respect and understanding of diversity.
Then, interfaith dialogue can bring people of different religions together to discuss issues can promote mutual understanding. The leaders of various religions can sit together to promote tolerance.
Besides, the government should ensure that individuals and communities can practice their religion without fear of discrimination. This can be achieved through legal protections and the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.
Additionally, the government may need to conduct some events to promote community interactions—for example, interfaith festivals, sports tournaments, and cultural events.
In conclusion, enhancing religious tolerance in Papua requires a multi-pronged approach. By promoting respect and understanding of diversity, Papua can continue to be an example of interfaith tolerance for other regions in Indonesia.
