Do Not Let Radicalism Grow: President Yudhoyono

Jakarta (Antara) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono said radicalism and extreme ideas must not be allowed to grow in Indonesia because they would only disrupt current peaceful and harmonious relations between different religious followers. "Do not let radical and extreme ideas grow in this country," he said in his speech at the event marking the national Christmas celebrations here on Friday evening. In view of that he said awareness must be developed early among younger generations in the country to grow the spirit of tolerance, brotherhood and peace. President Yudhoyono attended the event in the company of First Lady Any Yudhoyono and also several cabinet ministers and other high ranking state officials including vice president Boediono and wife Mrs Herawati Boediono. Around 4,000 Christians participated in the event carrying the them of "Come the King of Peace." President Yudhoyono said that creating just peace in the context of pluralism, environment and democracy which is the sub-theme of the event was not only the task of the state but also of all stakeholders in the country including religious and community leaders. "Do not only rely on the state to overcome any disruption to tolerance and harmony," he said. He said creating brotherhood and peace was an everlasting task of the nation because of its diversity. In view of that developing the spirit of giving and accepting and consensus and tolerance must be continuously promoted, he said. The chairman of the Indonesian Bishops' Conference, Mgr Iganitus Suharyo on the occasion narrated the Christmas message while the head of the Indonesian Communion of Churches. Rev. Kumala Seriabrata read the prayers. Mgr Ignatius said Christmas was reflection of how far "we could bring peace anywhere we are." (*)