Islamic scholars KH Ahmad Bahauddin Nursalim (Gus Baha) and Professor Muhammad Quraish Shihab engaged in a National Dialogue on Maintaining National Brotherhood to Preserve Indonesian Unity, organized by UGM on Monday (Mar. 4) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
Addressing over 4,000 UGM academics, Gus Baha underscored the significance of preserving diversity and brotherhood through collaborative problem-solving approaches. He emphasized that not all issues necessitate formal legal proceedings or court interventions.
“Not every issue warrants scolding, reprimanding, or resorting to formal legal processes,” he articulated.
Gus Baha illustrated social challenges that can be amicably addressed through familial or deliberative methods, highlighting the importance of problem resolution without resorting to violence and by upholding brotherhood, refraining from accusations, judgment, and undermining.
“Preserving diversity and brotherhood begins with resolving disputes without succumbing to anger,” he asserted.
Consequently, Gus Baha proposed resolving specific issues in Indonesia through familial channels, citing the Qurthubi book, which advocates for dispute resolution among the parties involved.
“In the Indonesian judicial system, disputes reported to the police can be settled through familial means. According to the Qurthubi book, disputes should be referred back to the disputants, as Umar suggested; perhaps they possess a familial solution,” he elaborated.
Gus Baha cautioned that resorting to courts for every issue might exacerbate tensions and spawn new conflicts among disputants.
“Resorting to courts could breed resentment, incitement, and jealousy. Utilizing logic and personal wisdom for resolution is more advisable,” he remarked.
However, he humorously remarked that if he were a political observer, he might jest about resolving issues by appointing someone as a minister.
“If I were a political observer, I might whimsically suggest resolving problems by appointing someone as a minister. But, of course, that’s not within my purview,” Gus Baha quipped.
Meanwhile, Professor Quraish Shihab asserted that all problems are surmountable, provided that we regard those with differing opinions as brothers and strive to find solutions guided by divine principles and indigenous wisdom.
“All issues can be resolved if we perceive those with dissenting views as brothers and endeavor to discover solutions grounded in divine guidance and local wisdom,” Professor Shihab expounded.
He stressed that unity cannot be achieved without shared understanding, highlighting the importance of seeking common ground in national brotherhood.
The Rector of UGM, Professor Ova Emilia, remarked on the recent democratic elections in Indonesia, which exposed potential societal problems and conflicts leading to polarization.
She acknowledged that differences in opinions and choices are inherent in the democratic process and serve as a test of Indonesia’s nationalism, demonstrating the nation’s capacity to uphold diversity within unity.
“Through this dialogue, we aim to fortify national brotherhood with pluralism, inclusivity, tolerance, and collaborative spirit. This is pivotal for safeguarding the nation’s unity and integrity, ultimately realizing the Golden Indonesia 2045,” she affirmed.
Author: Ika
Photographer: Firsto