YOGYAKARTA – Centre for Pancasila Studies (PSP) of UGM has criticised the inclusion of Pancasila in one of four pillars of nationhood which is trumpeted by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI). The Centre considers this will stir people away from the understanding of Pancasila as the state ideology. “Assumptions may arise whether Pancasila is the state ideology or national pillar,” said Head of the Centre, Prof. Dr. Sudjito, to reporters on Wednesday (11/9).
According to Sudjito, the founding fathers had established Pancasila as the state ideology and philosophy while there are no such things as the four pillars. “This is the state ignorance as it is not observant, neglecting problems of state ideology,” he said.
Sudjito said the Centre would soon host a scientific discussion inviting experts to discuss the controversy following the dissemination of ‘the four pillars’. “It aims to bring the status and position of Pancasila back to the right one in the country,” he said.
The discussion is scheduled to be held on Saturday (14/9) in UC UGM, presenting 20 experts to convey their views on the controversies of the use of Pancasila in the 4 pillars term. “We would give the opportunity to the experts to deliver their views,” he said. Some experts that have confirmed attendance are Speaker of MPR RI, former Chairperson of Muhammadiyah, Prof.Dr. Safii Maarif, professor of Philosophy UGM, Prof. Dr. Kaelan.