Indonesia’s supposed core belief in diversity is being tested by religious-led homophobia and anti-semitism. It comes as President Joko Widodo is due in Australia — and his nation of 600 ethnicities readies for presidential elections next year, writes Duncan Graham
Outbursts of anti-semitism and homophobia are poisoning Indonesia’s well of respect for difference, its tradition of living in harmony and making a mockery of the national motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika – Unity in Diversity.
In the run-up to next year’s presidential election, the Republic has still to find a champion prepared to confront illiberalism and restore the ‘moderate’ trademark. There was one – fourth President Abdurrahman ‘Gus Dur’ Wahid – but he’s long gone and his successors are turning to appeasement edged with fear and imagined threats.
The latest assumed threat is the Brit band Coldplay, set to perform in Jakarta in mid-November, delighting its fans and horrifying fundamentalists. The band is famous for its ‘infectious joy’ , philanthropy and support for LGBTQ people. The religious zealots, including both Muslim and Christians, picture concertgoers cheering the band’s chart-topper Viva La Vida (Live Life) and turning gay.
Then there’s sport. Earlier this year the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) cancelled Indonesia as host of the U20 World Games after two provincial governors opposed the event because young Israelis would compete. Indonesians are nuts about soccer which they play badly. Having the U20 in Indonesia meant millions would get to see the Beautiful Game at its peak and players learn new skills. That chance went to Argentina earlier this month. Uruguay won the tournament, Israel claimed third place.
Read the article by Duncamn Graham in Michael West Media.