ICC Note:
Educators in Indonesia are welcoming a measure to promote “pancasila” to Indonesian students. Pancasila are six core principles to Indonesian philosophy among which are “a united Indonesia,” and “ social justice for all citizens.” Many fear that a growing influence of hardline Islam bankrolled by Saudi investors is having negative affects not only on tolerance but on religious freedom in the country. Many Indonesians are aware of this, even in the government, and are trying to find ways to encourage the religious tolerance that Indonesia has historically been recognized for.
1/31/2017 Indonesia (UCA News) – Catholic educators welcomed a government plan to involve schools and teachers in the fight against intolerance by having them teach the values of state philosophy.
Education Minister Muhadjir Effendy said recently that the ministry would teach the tenets of Pancasila (“five principles”) in all elementary and junior high schools through special activities rather than conventional teaching methods.
Indonesian philosophy, Pancasila, stipulates belief in one God, a just and civilized society, a united Indonesia, democracy guided by consensus, and social justice for all citizens.
Making these principles properly understood and liveable in daily life can serve as a solution to curb the intolerance and radicalism that threatens national unity. The minister suggested that schools spend eight hours a week on these subjects, in the classroom and during extra-curricular activities.
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