New Criminal Code Momentum to Strengthen Religious Harmony in Indonesia

Indonesia's newly enacted Criminal Code (KUHP) presents a crucial moment to bolster religious harmony and foster peaceful coexistence among its diverse population. The Ministry of Religious Affairs is championing a new approach that moves beyond merely protecting religious institutions to actively cultivating a society where different faiths can live together harmoniously.

"In this new perspective, law not only protects religion as an institution but also ensures a safe space for all adherents to live side-by-side peacefully. This is the spirit we want to uphold so that the implementation of the new KUHP truly strengthens brotherhood amidst diversity," stated M. Adib Abdushomad, Head of the Center for Religious Harmony (PKUB) at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. He emphasized that the law should facilitate dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful conflict resolution.

Adib explained that the concept of "protecting religious coexistence" places social harmony as a key objective of legal implementation. This approach is expected to strengthen the culture of dialogue and mutual respect in a pluralistic society. The success of the new KUHP's implementation, he noted, depends not only on legal frameworks but also on public understanding of harmony as vital social capital for national development.

Akmal Malik, Director General of Politics and General Governance at the Ministry of Home Affairs, highlighted the importance of synergy between central and regional governments, as well as community involvement, in managing religious life. He stressed that cross-agency coordination and enhanced understanding at the regional level are critical for effective regulation implementation and maintaining social stability. The webinar also featured discussions on challenges and strategies for maintaining religious harmony post-KUHP, including building trust and dialogue among different religious communities.